The European Network for Traumatic Stress (TENTS) is a Europe-wide project focusing on evidence-based interventions to prevent the development of posttraumatic disorders and to promote recovery.
Approximately 80% of the population will experience at least one traumatic event in the course of their lifetime. In order to prevent trauma survivors from developing posttraumatic disorders and to promote early recovery, evidence-based interventions should be available throughout the European region.
The TENTS project was funded by the European Union and ran from 2007-2009. TENTS established a community-wide network of expertise on posttraumatic stress treatment for victims of natural and other disasters and examined which interventions are effective in the aftermath of disaster and whether these are available throughout Europe. TENTS produced an evidence-based model of care with dissemination materials as brochures and guidelines and e-learning materials.
The subsequent TENTS-TP project (Training & Practice) ran from 2009-2011 and further expanded and developed the network. TENTS-TP connected with other important European initiatives in the field of psychosocial care after trauma. TENTS-TP aimed to implement evidence-based interventions to prevent trauma survivors from developing posttraumatic disorders and interventions to promote (early) recovery.
The TENTS Update project began in 2026. The project will refresh the materials previously produced, encompassing latest evidence-based, best practice. These materials are scheduled to be available in 2027.
TENTS (2007-2009) materials
TENTS Guidelines: Full guidelines for psychosocial care following disasters and major incidents.
TENTS Leaflet: Abbreviated guidelines for psychosocial care following disasters and major incidents.
Interventions in the aftermath of disaster booklet: An introduction to a range of interventions for those affected by disaster.
Post-disaster psychosocial services across Europe: the TENTS project.
Witteveen AB, Bisson JI, Ajdukovic D, Arnberg FK, Bergh Johannesson K, Bolding HB, Elklit A, Jehel L, Johansen VA, Lis-Turlejska M, Nordanger DO, Orengo-García F, Polak AR, Punamaki RL, Schnyder U, Wittmann L, Olff M. (2012)
Social Science & Medicine, 75:9, 1708–1714. doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2012.06.017
TENTS-TP (2009-2011) materials
TENTS-TP Core Curriculum: The curriculum is based on the current evidence base. It aims to facilitate the training of mental health and social service professionals throughout Europe to deliver appropriate services to individuals affected by traumatic events. The curriculum is divided into 13 modules with learning outcomes.
TENTS-TP Trainer’s Manual: A manual for TENTS-TP trainers providing a step-by-step guide on how to organise and conduct a TENTS-TP curriculum workshop.
