The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a combined treatment using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and expressive writing works to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress in adults. It will also study how safe this treatment is and whether the timing of rTMS changes how well it works.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
* Does this combined treatment lower symptoms of post-traumatic stress? * Does it work better when rTMS is given before or after expressive writing?
Researchers will compare three groups to see which approach works best:
* rTMS given before expressive writing * rTMS given after expressive writing * Sham stimulation (a look-alike procedure that does not provide real stimulation)
Participants will:
* Take part in sessions that include expressive writing about emotional experiences * Receive either real rTMS or sham stimulation * Complete questionnaires about post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and mood * Have their heart rate and skin responses measured during the sessions * Be assessed before the study, after the sessions, and one month later
This study includes adults aged 18 to 65 who have experienced at least one traumatic or highly stressful event and report symptoms of post-traumatic stress.
Be between 18 and 65 years of age.
Have experienced at least one traumatic or highly stressful event, regardless of how much time has passed since the event occurred.
Present a score ≥ 24 on the Revised Impact of Event Scale (IES-R).
Have post-traumatic stress symptoms that are not better explained by another clinical condition or mental disorder.
History of epilepsy, seizures, or convulsions.
Presence of intracranial or cranial metal incompatible with rTMS.
History of severe traumatic brain injury.
Pregnancy or reasonable possibility of pregnancy.
Servicio Canario de Salud
Lead sponsor
University of La Laguna
Collaborator