Northwich PhD student Hannah in trauma research (From Northwich Guardian)

Northwich PhD student Hannah in trauma research

7:50am Friday 19th March 2010 in

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A STUDENT is calling for Guardian readers to help her research how people cope with traumatic events.

Hannah Stockton, from Castle, is in her final year of studying for a PhD, and is investigating how emotional upheaval affects people’s psychological health and well-being.

The 26-year-old, who went to Weaverham High School and Sir John Deane’s College, said: “The whole PhD is looking at post traumatic stress disorder and general adjustments after traumatic events, not just disorder.

“Some studies say that virtually everyone is going to be exposed to something traumatic in their lifetimes, but only a small proportion go on to develop post traumatic stress disorder.”

She added: “I am interested in the whole range of reactions to traumatic events, from those who develop post traumatic stress disorder and struggle for a long time, to those who adjust well and appear to recover – and even to those able to identify positive outcomes of their experience with trauma, such as deeper and more meaningful relationships with friends and family and a renewed appreciation for life.”

Hannah, who is studying at the University of Nottingham, said much of her research is being done through an anonymous online questionnaire, but she needs at least another 200 people to complete it.

She is appealing for people to get in touch who have suffered a sudden or unexpected bereavement, been diagnosed with a serious medical condition, been seriously injured, been involved in or witnessed a motor vehicle accident or experienced physical or sexual abuse, among a wide variety of traumatic events.

“Absolutely anyone who has had any kind of experience can take part,” she said.

“Some people think their experience isn’t traumatic enough, but to some people their cat having a major operation can be horrific for them.”

Hannah said that by taking part in the study, people may be able to help themselves and others.

“I think people should get involved because in the short term, it might actually help them,” she said.

“I can’t guarantee that, but thinking about their experience and how it may have changed them may possibly be good for them,” she said.

“In the longer term my research is going to help people who have experienced trauma – it will add to the knowledge base and give us a better understanding of these things.”

If you would like additional information email Hannah at lwxhs@nottingham.ac.uk.

The web address for the online questionnaire is surveymonkey.com/s/KRHGGQH