Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms in an Elite Unit of Brazilian Police Officers: Prevalence and Impact on Psychosocial Functioning and on Physical and Mental Health

This study determined the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms in Brazilian police officers & compared groups with & without these symptoms in terms of associated morbidity. 157 male officers from an elite unit completed questionnaires. Prevalence rates of full posttraumatic stress disorder & partial posttraumatic stress disorder were 8.9% & 16%, respectively. Police officers with full posttraumatic stress disorder were five time more likely to be divorced, to feel their physical health was poorer, to have had more medical consultations in the past 12 months, & to report lifetime suicide ideation more often. (12 refs.)