Comorbidity between PTSD and Anxiety and Depression: Implications for IAPT Services

Objective: The Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) initiative was introduced in the UK to increase access to psychological therapies for those with mild to moderate anxiety and depression. Recent outcome figures suggest recovery rates of 42%. One potential reason for non-recovery is the experience of previous trauma and potential PTSD comorbidity, which has been found to negatively impact treatment for anxiety and depression. This study therefore aimed to investigate trauma levels in IAPT patients.