This conference brings together diverse groups of mental health workers, social workers and academics to evaluate mental health practices in a war zone and question the traditional concept of trauma. It will examine the effectiveness of Western-derived interventions for ongoing trauma and discuss the viability of a PTSD diagnosis (including DSM & ICD) for civil conflict situations.

The victims of war are not ‘ill’. They react normally to abnormal conditions. Understanding those conditions and the ways in which they can be resisted offers new insights into therapeutic processes. This conference will explore community-based interventions, physical approaches to mental health, and trauma relief that focuses on children and adults.

This conference should create a stimulating and enjoyable scientific forum for the international community of senior and young researchers and practitioners in the field of trauma and related topics. The conference program will feature four integrated thematic areas:

• Developmental aspect (children v adults)
• Physical v mental health
• Individuals v community
• Research v practice

The four integrated areas will include keynote speakers, symposia, thematic sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions, thematic poster sessions and exhibitions.