Non-pharmacological therapies for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder among emergency responders: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVE

Identify non-pharmacological therapies for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in emergency responders.

METHOD: Scope review according to the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute and the PRISMA-ScR protocol. A search was conducted in nine databases, portals of theses and dissertations, and using an electronic search engine.

RESULTS

In total, 23 studies were selected and analyzed, and then categorized into six thematic fields - therapy with omega 3 food supplement, art therapy, physical exercise therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, therapy with elements of nature, and psychotherapy - which were considered non-pharmacological treatments for this psychopathology among emergency responders, as well as the use of psychotherapy via telehealth as an option for treatment.

CONCLUSION

More evidence supporting diet therapy is required, while the other therapeutic options presented positive results, finding support in national and international recommendations of treatment and clinical practice.