Functional impairment and utilization of services associated with posttraumatic stress in the community

This study describes social functioning and service utilization patterns as sociated with posttraumatic stress symptoms relative to nonpsychiatric cont rols and depressive disorder controls in a cross-sectional epidemiological survey. Data from 49 cases and 147 controls who participated in the North C arolina component of the Epidemiologic Catchment Area study were examined. Results indicate that symptoms of posttraumatic stress were associated with impairment along several domains of functioning: social, financial, physic al, and psychological. Individuals with posttraumatic stress were found to have more socioeconomic disadvantages and impaired functioning. Despite thi s, individuals with posttraumatic stress are receiving relatively few menta l health services. Further research assessing service use, treatment, and f unctional outcomes are indicated.