However, when coping mechanisms are inadequate in lowering
PTS symptoms therapy has shown to significantly reduce PTS
symptoms. However, noted that referral for therapy is not automatic, but the possibility of referral doubled when mothers had a Perinatal PTSD Questionnaire score of 19 and above. Significant reduction in PTS symptoms at discharge were seen with a crisis intervention program that focused on reconstructing the occurrences shortly before and after birth and at the early days of NICU admission, simple relaxation and calming techniques, support during emotional outbursts, exploration of stress and trauma reactions, exploration of psychological and coping strategies, discussions of personal resources, exploration of possible solutions, and arrangement for follow-up with mother on progress . This intervention specifically
addressed parental perceptions of infant condition, obtained
obstetric history, explored the parent-infant relationship,
addressed reactions to the NICU, discussed relationships with the
spouse, and provided frequent visits by the psychologists after
completion of the crisis intervention.