Answer given by Vice-President Mogherini on behalf of the European Commission

10.8.2018

A Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may occur as a consequence of any trauma, including in combat, a life-changing event or natural disasters.

Despite the increasing acceptance of PTSD and education about its effects, it remains a sensitive subject for the affected individuals and their professional and social environment. Latency between trauma and onset, variation of symptoms and the avoidance of seeking professional help adds to the number of unreported cases.

Early intervention after having been exposed to a trauma, preferably in the mother tongue and by trained specialists is of eminent importance.

Health Care and Medical Support is a national responsibility as defined by the Comprehensive Health and Medical Concept for EU-led Crisis Management Missions and Operations, which is applicable to military and civilian EU-led Common Security and Defence Policy operations and missions.

Prioritisation and standards for prevention, detection or treatment for PTSD vary between nations; collaboration between civilian and military expertise is often disconnected.

With increased numbers of deployed personnel but also numerous traumatic incidents among refugees, the absolute number of PTSD cases and consequently the impact to European Union society will increase. The Commission is investigating the need for harmonisation and standardisation with regard to PTSD in support to Member States, encouraging a collaborative approach.