EM Georges, Rogenette <br/><br/>
Psychological trauma: From wound to reconstruction. Clinical perspectives in the context of natural disasters 

 -  2026.<br/>							 
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<br/><br/> Psychological trauma, etymologically defined as a “psychic wound,” constitutes a normal response to exceptional events that threaten an individual’s physical and/or psychological integrity. The historical evolution of the concept—from Oppenheim’s pioneering work in 1888 on “traumatic neurosis” to contemporary nosography—reflects an increasingly refined understanding of these complex phenomena. Recent studies identify four core symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): re-experiencing (flashbacks, nightmares), avoidance, hyperarousal, and changes in cognition and mood. Neurobiological perspectives highlight the underlying mechanisms involved, particularly hyperactivation of the amygdala and dysregulation of its connections with the prefrontal cortex, resulting in impaired emotional regulation and dissociative symptoms. Individual responses vary according to the nature of the traumatic event, personal history, mental state, and level of environmental support. The worldwide prevalence of PTSD is estimated at 3.9%, with a higher prevalence among women. Therapeutic interventions include eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and hypnosis, alongside pharmacological treatment and complementary therapies when indicated. A holistic approach to care—integrating the fundamental role of the social environment as well as resilience factors and protective resources—supports psychological reconstruction and the transformation of vulnerability into therapeutic potential.