Reactive psychosis in victims of torture

Torture causes different effects on victims, and it is associated with several mental syndromes. A previous study carried out by the Centro Alternativas, with a random sample of the population assisted from 1977 until 1992, has showed us that torture is associated, in 9% of cases, with a psychotic reaction. It is necessary to emphasise that the cases studied, had no previous psychiatric disorder. In this research we discuss the psychotic signs and symptoms associated with the torture trauma.

Generally, the psychotic syndrome associated with torture is similar to Brief Psychotic Reaction. Nevertheless, the syndrome has some remarkable differences, such as the delayed psychotic reaction - the symptoms appear several months after the torture trauma, and in the absence of treatment the person shows a deep social and labor behaviour deterioration, and recurrent psychotic crisis.

Finally, we assessed the most appropriate form of clinical treatment, which was usually focused on working through the trauma of torture with the victim, and gave psychosocial support to him/her. It allowed for the recovery of the patient and a satisfactory social and labour adaptation.

We consider that it is important to discuss the psychotic syndrome associated with torture, as, in our experience, the care providers confuse the syndrome with schizophrenia. They are often treated with high doses of neuroleptics; the professional evaluates the syndrome as chronic and decides that the person does not need psychotherapy treatment.