Mental Health
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Also known as: PTSD, Post-traumatic stress, Trauma disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) condition guide: symptoms, causes, prevention, and when to seek care. Educational only — not a diagnosis.
Overview
PTSD can follow accidents, assault, war, violence, disasters, or life-threatening events. Not everyone who faces trauma develops PTSD. Common symptoms: re-experiencing (flashbacks/nightmares), avoiding triggers, negative thoughts/mood, and being overly alert. Trauma-focused talking therapy and medicines can help. Family support and safety matter.
Symptoms
- Unwanted memories (flashbacks, nightmares)
- Avoiding places, people, or talks that remind you
- Negative mood, shame, or withdrawal
- Being overly alert, poor sleep
- Anger or feeling easily threatened
- Sometimes self-harm or heavy drinking
Causes
The trauma itself plus genetics, social support, and earlier injuries. Children, women, and people with repeated violence are at higher risk.
Treatment (general information)
Trauma-focused therapy (e.g. CBT, EMDR for selected people), SSRIs, and self-care support. Do not force someone to “forget” quickly. Immediate care after trauma is not the same as treating chronic PTSD.
Prevention
Early support after trauma, safety, and less stigma help. There is no perfect prevention.
When to see a doctor
If symptoms last more than a month, worsen, or include thoughts of self-harm. Get emergency help for current risk of self-harm or harming others.
Frequently asked questions
- Is PTSD only for soldiers?
- No. Anyone can develop it after severe trauma.
- Must someone tell every detail at once?
- No. A clinician paces safely; forcing full detail early can harm.