Exploring factors which relate to PTSD and Mood Problems post-TIA
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring factors relating to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mood Problems in People following a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
IRAS ID
338709
Contact name
Eirini Kontou
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Nottingham
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
10.17605/OSF.IO/PUYB7, Open Science Forum Registration DOI
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 23 days
Research summary
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder which can occur after exposure to trauma. It can be followed by ongoing symptoms, which include re-experiencing and changes in mood and thinking. There is evidence that PTSD can occur after medical diagnoses, but currently, there is minimal research into the impact of PTSD and psychological effects following a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA).
The symptoms of a TIA are like a stroke, which can include limb weakness and sensory changes. Symptoms appear to go away within 24 hours, unlike a stroke where symptoms can be longer-lasting. Despite this, a TIA is a frightening experience. In TIA services, patients will attend a one-day clinic, get physical health tests and advice relating to lifestyle, and are often discharged with no further support. However, stroke patients often receive further care, which can include inpatient stays and psychological support. Research has indicated TIA patients do have longer-lasting psychological aftereffects, which include symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
The research on TIA and what may contribute to such ongoing psychological distress is sparse. It is indicated how people think about the event, and their coping style may be important factors. The researchers are interested in whether people experience PTSD symptoms and mood problems after a TIA and what factors relate to their development?
If we can identify which factors contribute to the development of psychological distress, it could lead to targeted psychological interventions being incorporated into services and raise awareness that patients have longer-lasting symptoms.
We plan to recruit at least 55 participants from TIA clinics and social media to complete 5 self-report questionnaires and a demographics form. Questionnaires will be completed once, and will take up to 30 minutes to complete. A separate ethics application for the social media recruitment strategy has been approved through the UoN.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 01
REC reference
24/SS/0025
Date of REC Opinion
11 Apr 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion