risk factors for posttraumatic stress disorder

Etiology: General risk factors: 1) female sex 2) previous trauma 3) childhood separation from parents 4) family instability 5) predisposing mental health condition 6) the type & severity of the trauma 7) lack of support after trauma Elderly: 1) diminished personal coping skills 2) cognitive impairment 3) lessened social support 4) reduced financial resources to replace material loss 5) age-related stressors a) bereavement (death of a spouse) b) physical disability c) relocation to a care environment (nursing home)

References

Zeller, Michelle. GRECC West LA, Lecture, 02/10/04