A recent German trial published in The BMJ reveals that brief talking therapy sessions led by general practitioners (GPs) can help reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in patients recovering from critical illness. While the intervention’s effects were modest, they could bridge the gap between discharge from intensive care units (ICUs) and access to specialized mental health care—often delayed due to long waiting lists.
The study included 319 adult participants, who were divided into two groups: one received structured GP-led consultations and nurse follow-ups, while the other received enhanced standard care. Results showed that PTSD symptom scores (measured by PDS-5) decreased more in the intervention group over 6 and 12 months, though the difference did not exceed the clinically important six-point threshold.
Despite its limitations—such as brief GP training and the exclusion of severely affected individuals—the study highlights potential improvements in depression, disability, and quality of life. Researchers believe this approach could provide a practical, scalable solution for primary care settings, particularly in resource-constrained health systems.
