Anticipatory stress response in PTSD: extreme stress in children.

Topic:   Anticipatory stress chronically activates the stress response in children with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Effects of the allostatic load may begin even before birth in a stressful environment.

Purpose:   The purpose of this paper is to discuss the anticipatory stress response in children with PTSD. The paper discusses the etiology, the impact of the disorder on long-term health, cognitive and behavioral manifestations, and clinical management and treatment options.

Sources Used:   A review on current literature is presented and includes several key studies.

Conclusions:   Anticipatory stress in PTSD has acute and long-term health implications for the child. The psychiatric nurse plays a key role in preventing the long-term effects of PTSD.