Groundbreaking PTSD Treatment Trial in Northern NSW
A groundbreaking clinical trial will be conducted in northern New South Wales to help people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by natural disasters. The trial, funded by the federal government with $3.8 million, will involve approximately 200 survivors of the devastating floods that hit the region in 2022.
This trial marks a world first in utilizing MDMA-assisted therapy for post-disaster PTSD treatment. Led by researcher James Bennett-Levy from Southern Cross University in Lismore, the project aims to establish Australia as a leader in climate-related mental health and wellbeing research.
The trial will employ a "stepped care" model of recovery. Participants will initially engage in arts and nature-based group therapy, followed by MDMA-assisted therapy for those who require it. This approach aims to address the complex needs of individuals suffering from PTSD.
Professor Bennett-Levy emphasizes the importance of self-compassion in the healing process. He explains that research conducted after the 2017 floods in Lismore revealed a correlation between self-blame and worsened PTSD symptoms. The current trial will incorporate MDMA-assisted therapy to promote self-compassion and facilitate recovery.
Researchers estimate that thousands of people in Lismore continue to suffer from PTSD following the floods. Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, who personally experienced the trauma of the floods, believes the city is well-positioned to conduct this research, which could benefit other communities affected by natural disasters.
The project is expected to play a significant role in the region's recovery. Vice Chancellor of Southern Cross University, Tyrone Carlin, highlights the broader relevance of the trial, emphasizing its potential to be scaled and implemented in other locations facing similar challenges.
The project will undergo a rigorous ethical review before participant selection begins later this year. This groundbreaking trial holds promise for improving the lives of individuals suffering from PTSD and contributing to a more resilient future in the face of climate change.