The Impact of a Brief Psycho-Education and Skills Intervention on Trauma Symptoms in a Prison Setting: Proof of Concept Using Group and Case Analysis.

The links between trauma and poorer physical health and psychological well-being in adulthood are now well established. Research shows levels of trauma are especially high amongst those who are incarcerated although evidence on what works to help this group is limited. To examine the effectiveness and acceptability of participation in a new brief, structured group intervention in fostering stabilization through reducing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and improving mental health in male inmates who have experienced trauma. Participants completed questionnaire measures before and after treatment and provided feedback via semi structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed at the group and individual level and qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. At the group level, participants showed a significant improvement in scores for PTSD, anxiety and general mental health. Examination of individual scores showed reliable and clinically meaningful change for some individuals in trauma and mental health symptoms with little change observed for wellbeing and resilience. Participants feedback was generally positive with suggestions for future changes. Engaging in a brief group-based trauma intervention was acceptable to participants and offered significant improvements mental health and PTSD for some incarcerated individuals who have experienced trauma. This intervention may provide a cost effective and resource light approach to phase 1 PTSD treatment ahead of phase 2 treatment. It would be valuable for future research to develop understanding on who the intervention is most effective for.