Feasibility Study of the Self-Care Immediate Stabilization Procedure (ISP) ® After a Traumatic Experience

Self-Care Immediate Stabilization Procedure (ISP) ® After a Traumatic Experience - A Feasibility Study

The study aims to assess the feasibility of an online intervention platform based on the Immediate Stabilization Procedure (ISP®). This intervention targets early trauma reactions, aiming to reduce the risk of future PTSD.

The primary objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of an immediate stabilization procedure adapted for online self-usage.

This procedure relies on the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment, a well-known approach for post-traumatic responses. It involves bilateral stimulation of the brain's hemispheres through tapping on the body (i.e., the 'Butterfly Hug') and positive therapist statements during the tapping process. Key advantages of this protocol include: 1) prevents long-term post-traumatic symptoms; 2) short intervention - takes 5-20 minutes on average; 3) simple procedure that does not require recalling traumatic memories; 4) could be administered by non-mental health experts.

The ISP® protocol was found effective and safe in Israel (face-to-face) and the Ukraine (remote). In addition, online variations of the protocol for self-usage have been utilized globally. The on-going state of war emphasizes the critical need for immediate emotional support. A collaborative group involving researchers, mental health clinicians, and software engineers adapted the ISP® protocol for online self-usage. The current study aims to evaluate the efficiency of this intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Hebrew speakers
2. Age 18 years or older
3. Have been in Israel since October 7th 2023 (the start of the war)
4. Were exposed to traumatic events during the war (Alarms, participated in battles, were attacked by terrorists, etcetera)
5. Access to PC/smartphone
6. Basic technological skills, ability to use the internet and email.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosed with psychotic conditions.
2. Diagnosed with PTSD or complex PTSD.
3. Diagnosed with alcohol use disorder or drug abuse disorder.
4. Suicidal ideation
5. Treated with medication, psychotherapy, or any other mental treatment

About 10 randomly selected subjects will perform the intervention while recorded via zoom in the presence of a research assistant. This will allow us to assess the way subjects utilize this intervention.