There is now increased recognition that Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur
after Traumatic Brain Injury (McMillan, 1996; Bryant & Harvey 1999). Recent literature
highlights the occurrence of traumatic incidents which, although accompanied by brain
injury, result in symptoms consistent with PTSD. Furthermore, this raises the question of
whether PTSD can occur after non-traumatic brain injury, for example, stroke (Sembi et al.
1998). Memory for the event appears to be important in the development of PTSD
symptoms particularly in relation to re-experiencing the event. The role of memory for the
event in the development of PTSD following acquired brain injury remains unclear
(Sbordone & Liter 1995).Following on from work by Berry (1998), this study aimed to confirm whether it is possible
for PTSD to occur following both haemorrhagic and ischaemic stroke. The effect of loss of
consciousness on memory for the event, as well as the consequence of this on subsequent
psychological distress is explored. The implications of a stressor which disrupts brain
function is considered with particular emphasis on the frequency and type of symptoms
reported.The thirty-two individuals who participated in this study had recently experienced either a
haemorrhagic or an ischaemic stroke. All participants were screened to exclude those who
had severe cognitive impairment. Participants completed self-report measures describing
current psychological distress including symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Semistructured
interviews were conducted to diagnose PTSD. Data was collected on type,
location and severity of stroke as well as demographic details. The results are discussed
with reference to previous research findings
