Abstract
This research involved the holistic, individualized treatment of patients with post
traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), employing homoeopathic medicine. Post traumatic
stress disorder can lead to a variety of complications which may diminish or destroy
interpersonal relationships, may handicap the patient occupationally or
recreationally, or may lead to substance abuse. Research has indicated that patients
with PTSD are more likely to have a personality disorder; a previous history of
depression, abuse or substance abuse or a family history of psychopathology. Given
this, it is presumed that PTSD can occur in anyone who has experienced trauma and
sufficient stress. In order to reduce post traumatic stress severity, treatment should
emphasise and acknowledge that mental, emotional, behavioural and social factors
contribute to trauma.
This study involved ten patients (plus two additional) who participated in five
homoeopathic consultations, over a period of four months. The appropriate
homoeopathic remedy, or similimum, was determined using each patient’s
distinguishing mental, emotional and physical symptoms. Each participant
completed the Researcher’s Questionnaire at each consultation and recorded their
stress episodes on a calendar to be handed in at each follow-up appointment. These
results, together with holistic progress as noted by the researcher at every
consultation, were used to determine the efficacy of homoeopathy on post traumatic
stress disorder.
The intent of the research was to prove that treatment should be specific and
individualistic, irrespective of the diagnosis. This study aimed to provide a holistic
therapy for PTSD and the results indicated that the similimum treatment in sufferers
of post traumatic stress disorder was effective in reducing post traumatic stress
frequency, severity, and intensity. Moreover, improvement in mental and emotional
wellbeing, sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels were noted in all the patients.
Dr. R. Mistry
Dr. A. Fourie