After three years of captivity in the Sahel, Serge Lazarevic was released and is currently being examined at the Val-de-Grâce military hospital. For him a delicate phase begins, that of psychological reconstruction.
Serge Lazarevic is finally free! After more than three years in the Sahel (Mali), the 50-year-old ex-hostage landed on Wednesday morning at Villacoublay military airport (78), near Paris. He was the last French hostage identified to date.
Serge Lazarevic is currently being examined at the Val-de-Grâce military hospital. He is subjected to a battery of tests to check the state of his eyes, his joints etc … And according to a press release from the Elysee Palace he would be “in relatively good health”, despite the very trying conditions of his. long captivity. But for him now begins a delicate phase of his new life, that of reconstruction. To learn more about this period which can last several years why actor asked Carole Damiani, psychologist within the association Paris Victim Assistance.
What is the immediate psychological care of an ex-hostage?
Carole Damiani : So first of all, the ex-hostage passes a battery of medical examinations. This is what takes precedence at the start. Psychological care does not occur until a second stage. Doctors offer it every time. But very often, the ex-hostage refuses it. When he arrives he is in a state of euphoria and thinks that he does not need anyone. However, a first rapid diagnosis of the mental state of the patient is important. Already to make a first contact. It will subsequently facilitate a real therapeutic work which will be this time over the length.
And once the euphoria has passed, what is the medical follow-up?
Carole Damiani : So the follow-up is not necessarily done all at once with regular appointments. It can last for several years and with interruptions.
In general, ex-hostages are followed upon their return by specialists in trauma linked to terrorism. They follow them throughout the reconstruction process because they know the patient and know how to approach the difficult period. In short, by addressing several people, the subject may have the feeling of not moving forward and of being scattered. As if he started therapy every time.
Concretely, how does a consultation with a specialist go?
Carole Damiani : Most of the time there is a need for medication. The ex-hostages therefore take either antidepressants or anxiolytics. Some will also benefit from relaxation sessions to lower inner pressure. Psychotherapy is also a classic treatment in this kind of situation. It is the most effective in the very long term. Concerning her, it is a link with speech to try to understand how we functioned during captivity, why we still feel guilt or shame … It is a permanent questioning.
Do some ex-hostages get by without symptoms?
Carole Damiani : So psycho-traumatic symptoms of the PTSD type are very common among victims of terrorism. They manifest themselves when they have been faced with death or when they themselves have been threatened with death. But it’s not just that. The trauma may be deeper. There is also sometimes a depressive state which will manifest itself.
When the symptoms have disappeared, is there a risk of relapse?
Carole Damiani : Yes, but before that, you should know that those who benefit from psychological follow-up have a lower risk of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But during strong emotional moments for these ex-hostages, the symptoms can reappear. This has already happened, for example, during the commemoration ceremony for victims of terrorism which takes place each year at Invalides (Paris).
These relapses can also occur on birthdays or at the time of the disappearance of a loved one.
Finally, seeing an ex-hostage again can also present a risk of relapse.
What is the role of the family in reconstruction?
Carole Damiani : It is very clear, the role of relatives is essential. They must make themselves available to the hostage. And concretely offer him to talk about captivity at any time of the day. After that it is up to the hostage to decide whether he wants to confide or not.
For loved ones elsewhere, sequelae may also appear. Some people often have difficulty knowing how to deal with the trauma victim. We must also help them. And that we do not do enough in France. These people also have questions and often no one is there to answer them. It is important to also think of them, by guiding them for example. But for them, we do not speak of psychotherapy but of guidance.
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