Defeating the Giant with a Slingshot: Testing a New Technology to Fight the Global Trauma Epidemic

Project Lead(s): Hanna Kienzler

Our project, “Defeating the Giant with a slingshot: Testing a new technology to fight the global trauma epidemic,” will be carried out in collaboration between the Douglas Mental Health University Institute (Montreal, Canada) and the non-governmental organization Center for Victims of Torture (Kathmandu, Nepal). Currently, there exists no inexpensive and culturally appropriate treatment for people suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in low- and middle-income countries. We aim at curbing the PTSD global epidemic by conducting a study providing Nepalese torture survivors with a treatment that diminishes traumatic memory and its negative effects. If successful, a safe, effective and inexpensive treatment could become available to millions of people who’s lives are affected by violence and traumatic experiences.