When we think of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), we often associate it with soldiers who have experienced combat or individuals who have survived accidents. However, what about those who merely witness traumatic events? Military veterans, first responders, and even bystanders account for approximately 10% of PTSD cases, according to new research from Virginia Tech.
The Impact of Observing Trauma
Recent findings indicate that witnessing trauma can cause unique changes in the brain, differing from those seen in individuals who directly experience traumatic events. These discoveries could lead to more targeted treatments for PTSD in those who are indirectly affected.
“Currently, patients with directly acquired PTSD and bystander PTSD are treated the same way – with a combination of therapy and medication,” explained Timothy Jarome, principal investigator and associate professor of neurobiology at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
“Our research suggests that indirect trauma and direct trauma create different biological responses, which could mean they require distinct treatment strategies that focus on different brain pathways.”
The Effect of Observed Trauma on the Brain
Professor Jarome has spent years studying memory-related disorders, such as PTSD and dementia. His interest in bystander PTSD was sparked by the 2021 Miami condominium collapse, where he noticed that even individuals who merely saw the tragedy unfold from a distance displayed PTSD symptoms like nightmares, insomnia, and anxiety.
“People who witnessed the collapse from across the street reported experiencing severe distress despite having no personal connection to the victims,” said Jarome.
To better understand these effects, Jarome’s team focused on three brain regions associated with fear memory:
- The amygdala
- The anterior cingulate cortex
- The retrosplenial cortex
Their research confirmed that indirect trauma alters protein degradation patterns in these regions in ways distinct from direct trauma.
Gender Differences in PTSD Response
Another significant finding of the study was that male and female brains process indirect trauma differently. Previously, Jarome’s lab linked the K-63 ubiquitin protein to PTSD in women. This study further supports the idea that biological differences may explain why women are twice as likely as men to develop PTSD.
“Our findings highlight critical differences in how male and female brains respond to witnessing trauma,” said study lead author Shaghayegh Navabpour. “This could pave the way for more personalized treatments that consider these gender-specific factors.”
The next step in Jarome’s research is to examine the role of empathy in how people process observed trauma. Since empathy is deeply connected to the anterior insular cortex, it could provide insights into why witnessing traumatic events has such a profound psychological impact.
Funding and Contributions to PTSD Research
This research was funded by a $420,000 grant from the National Institute of Mental Health, which covered materials and supported student researchers.
“At academic institutions, students are the backbone of research,” said Jarome. “While faculty members secure funding, the actual research is conducted by graduate students, undergraduates, and postdocs. Without their contributions, scientific progress would stall.”
One such contributor, Shaghayegh Navabpour, completed her Ph.D. in translational biology, medicine, and health at Virginia Tech and now works as a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University focusing on Alzheimer’s drug development.
“My time in Dr. Jarome’s lab was instrumental in shaping my career,” said Navabpour. “I learned critical thinking skills, how to ask meaningful scientific questions, and gained hands-on experience that still informs my research today.”
Conclusion
This study challenges our traditional understanding of PTSD and its connection to trauma. It highlights that individuals don’t need to be directly in harm’s way to experience deep psychological distress. With more targeted treatment strategies, PTSD care could become more personalized and effective in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is bystander PTSD?
Bystander PTSD occurs when individuals experience PTSD symptoms after witnessing a traumatic event, even if they were not directly involved in it.
How is bystander PTSD different from traditional PTSD?
While both forms of PTSD involve trauma-related symptoms, research indicates that indirect trauma affects different brain pathways and protein mechanisms compared to direct trauma.
What are the symptoms of bystander PTSD?
Symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, emotional distress, and intrusive thoughts related to the observed trauma.
How can bystander PTSD be treated?
Current treatments include therapy and medication, but new research suggests that more specialized approaches may be needed based on gender and the nature of the trauma.
Are women more susceptible to bystander PTSD?
Yes, research indicates that women are twice as likely as men to develop PTSD, potentially due to differences in brain chemistry and the way trauma is processed.
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