The French public health agency is launching a survey of victims to help the public authorities improve response strategies in the event of an attack.
The terrorist attacks of November 13, 2015 in Paris and the Stade de France left 130 dead and 413 wounded in hospital. It is a wound forever gaping in the heart of every French. So, in an attempt to alleviate the pain of bereaved families and that of the thousands of people directly affected, the scientific community is also playing its part. Studies to assess and mitigate the consequences of this shock wave are increasing.
An epidemiological study conducted by Public Health France and ARS Ile-de-France after the January 2015 attacks has already revealed their significant impact on the mental health of those affected: 6 months after the events, nearly 4 “civilians” out of 10 still presented with at least one disorder (post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety disorders). In addition, this study showed that only 4% of directly threatened civilians spontaneously consulted.
A work of understanding psycho-traumas and the use of care that Public health France, the Health Agency wishes to continue. She announces this Thursday the launch of a new investigation.
From July 7 to October 1, 2016, ESPA survey November 13 will be conducted online with affected people over 16 years of age. “This work will help the public authorities to act in favor of the populations affected by the attacks, and improve response strategies in the face of this type of event”, specifies the Agency in a press release.
20 to 40 minutes
We already know that the questionnaire, which takes 20 to 40 minutes to complete, will focus on their exposure to events, the impact on their daily lives and the psychological impact of the events, their recourse to care and the support received.
This concerns “civilians”, directly targeted or threatened by terrorists, “who had to go into hiding, direct witnesses of the attacks perpetrated”; the professionals who intervened, “emergency services and law enforcement, associations, city services, care”; the bereaved of a loved one.
A study that is reminiscent of the ambitious research project recently launched by Inserm, CNRS and héSam University. Named 13-November, it will last 10 years and will concern 1,000 victims of the attacks, interveners or ordinary citizens who will be questioned about the attacks to study the construction of memory.
In connection with the investigation, Public Health France is offering an information file on the post-traumatic consequences: what are the signals that should alert? Which structures to go to if you want support? What are the associations of victims?
And psychological support systems are made available to people in need when responding to the questionnaire, concludes the Agency.
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