RESEARCHERS at Southern Cross University have been awarded more than $3.8 million to help Northern Rivers locals affected by the devastating 2022 floods.
In a world-first approach, the researchers will implement a stepped care model to support over 200 people left with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the floods.
To date, there have been very few clinical trials focused on recovery from disaster-related PTSD. None have focused on a stepped care model.
Stepped care is an evidence-based system for treating mental health, involving a hierarchy of treatments, from least to most intensive.
The stepped care treatments in this clinical trial will include an arts-based group compassion program and group-based MDMA-assisted therapy. It is hoped the findings will provide additional treatment options for those impacted by future disasters.
