NHS England has sent a letter to GPs outlining evidence-based treatment for victims of trauma, following ‘the recent major incidents in Manchester and London’.
The letter, from NHS England’s director of primary care Dr Arvind Madan, says ‘watchful waiting’ rather than intervention is recommended for up to four weeks after a trauma.
But the letter, based on NICE guidance, adds: ‘If symptoms are severe or continue for more than four weeks a referral to a specialist mental health service may be required.’
It recommends health professionals hand out the NHS leaflet ‘Coping with stress following a major incident’ and refer to Gov.uk and NHS Choices for information on local support services related to specific incidents.
In the letter, Dr Madan also extends his gratitude to NHS professionals who were ‘involved in the recent major incidents in Manchester and London for their responsiveness and hard work’.
