Psychological risk assessment following the terrorist attacks in New York in 2001

Abstract

Background: Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) is a post-traumatic psychological management model utilizing peer support/assessment, developed by the UK military. Following September 11th, 2001, the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) deployed TRiM personnel to New York.

Aims: This report describes the use of TRiM by the FCO in New York and examines the correlation validity of the TRiM assessments.

Method: Assessments were conducted among personnel shortly after the event and again after a further month. The initial and follow-up scores on the 10-item TRiM Risk Assessment Tool (RAT) and the Impact of Events Scale (IES) were compared.

Results: Twenty-eight people were assessed using the RAT; 20 also completed the IES. The IES identified 19 cases at initial assessment compared to 5 using the RAT. At follow up, the IES identified 10 cases compared to two using the RAT. Initial RAT and IES scores were not correlated however the follow-up scores (Pearson's r = 0.79, p < 0.001) and the change in scores were (Pearson's r = 0.56, p = 0.02).

Conclusion: Results suggest the TRiM process was well received and the RAT appears to measure a similar change in post traumatic distress as the well validated IES. Further research will determine the efficacy of this system.

Keywords:

• TRiM
• Impact of Events Scale
• UK military
• FCO