[Emotional consequences of psychological trauma].

The emotional consequences of psychological traumatisms are varied: major depression, anxiety disorders, addictive behaviour, adjustement disorders, and functional symptoms. The most severe traumatisms are likely to trigger an acute stress reaction which can lead to a chronic state called post-traumatic stress disorder. A rigorous clinical evaluation will determine not only the nature of the causal events but also the factors involved in the patient's emotional vulnerability elicited through his personal biography. Apart from specific psychiatric syndromes the treatment of adjustment disorders will rely mainly on social and psychological interventions; the use of psychotropic drugs will be prudent and limited in time.