Researchers at the New York State Psychiatric Institute wondered why a “surprisingly high percentage of study applicants” for studies in PTSD presented with psychotic symptoms. Upon reviewing the data they found that of 223 consecutively evaluated individuals, 38 (17%) were found to be ineligible because of psychotic symptoms. These individuals were more likely to have suffered child abuse, and to have taken a greater number of lifetime medications than study-eligible applicants, although they met DSM-IV criteria for PTSD. The researchers conclude that a trauma-informed framework might lead to greater engagement with treatment and more positive outcomes for some individuals with psychotic symptoms. Results appear in Psychiatric Services.
