Samenvatting

This article gives an insight in the possibilities and limitations of the prevention of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). An elaboration upon the diagnosis, criteria, onset and prevalence demonstrates the enormous impact of PTSD. Prevalence rates vary between countries and with the intensity of missions, but are lower in non-US Western countries. The risk factors for PTSD are well documented, as well as relationships between PTSD and an individuals psychological, biological, and social functioning. Less research is focused on protective factors for PTSD. Although resilience is an important protective factor for early prevention, current prevention strategies based on this concept are not very effective. The time frame after the trauma (golden hours) is important for applying psychological and pharmacological preventing strategies. It is not clear yet what kind of prevention will be effective in the future.