Overview of the Methods of Psychological Assistance and Support for People Affected by a Traumatic Situation

Abstract

Background. Modern practical psychology presents an extensive arsenal of methods aimed at eliminating the psychological consequences of traumatic events. The analysis of foreign and Russian experience of psychological assistance to victims as well as the search for optimal methods depending on the type of trauma have determined the relevance of this study.

Objective. The goal is to analyze methods of psychological assistance to individuals affected by traumatic events of various origins.

Methods. Analysis of scientific literature and search through electronic databases was conducted. In describing the terms “psychotrauma” and “traumatic situation,” we analyzed empirical findings from both Russian and international studies. Publications retrieved from RSCI, EMBASE, etc. were evaluated when considering psychological support measures applicable in catastrophic and natural disaster contexts. The titles of publications and keywords served as search criteria.

Results. The article discusses the main scientific approaches to the concepts of “mental trauma” and “psychotraumatic situation”. It analyzes the main trends in providing psychological assistance to individuals affected by natural psychotraumatic situations. The methods for providing psychological assistance are classified according to the characteristics of a psychotraumatic situation. The effectiveness of the methods as well as the specifics of providing assistance to children are characterized. The method of biological feedback described in the study is highlighted as a promising approach.

Conclusions. An analysis of scientific literature has shown that the choice of methods of psychological assistance should take into account the nature of the traumatic experience, including the person’s life experience and developmental characteristics during childhood. The main objectives of psychological assistance in a traumatic situation include providing immediate and close-to-the-event assistance; providing necessary information and emotional support; stabilizing the emotional state; addressing the traumatic experiences; and restoring the person’s resource and adaptive capabilities. It has been shown that interactive exercise technologies within the framework of socio-psychological training, personal growth training, art techniques in combination with psychodynamic analysis, and the organization of leisure and creativity in communities are effective. Technologies based on biofeedback are considered as a modern method of psychological rehabilitation.