Development and evaluation of an online and mobile-based intervention for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in adolescents and young adults

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder that can develop after exposure to traumatic experiences. It is associated with substantial suffering and can significantly impair affected individuals’ further emotional, physical, social, and occupational development. In children, adolescents, and young adults, its consequences may extend into adulthood, creating a considerable burden not only at the individual level but also at the societal level.

Although PTSD can be effectively treated using psychotherapeutic methods, not all adolescents and young adults receive appropriate support due to structural and attitudinal barriers. Internet- and mobile-based interventions can help close this gap. To date, however, no evidence-based digital treatment option for PTSD exists for the technology-affine target group of adolescents and young adults.

The StAR project aims to address this research and care gap by developing an internet- and mobile-supported intervention for the treatment of PTSD in adolescents aged 15 to 21 years and evaluating it in an initial feasibility study. A subsequent randomized controlled trial will examine the effectiveness of the internet- and mobile-based intervention.

The project is a subproject of the BestForCan research consortium, which broadly focuses on the dissemination of effective psychotherapeutic treatments for children, adolescents, and young adults after exposure to traumatic events.