Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can develop after exposure to an extremely threatening or horrific event and involves more than an understandable short-term stress response.
Core patterns
- Re-experiencing: intrusive memories, nightmares or feeling as though the event is happening again.
- Avoidance: efforts to avoid reminders, thoughts or feelings connected with the trauma.
- Heightened threat: hypervigilance, exaggerated startle, irritability or sleep and concentration problems.
- Changes in mood and thinking: guilt, detachment, loss of interest or persistent negative beliefs.
Many people experience distress after trauma and recover without developing PTSD. Diagnosis depends on the pattern, duration and functional impact—not on the event alone.
Assessment with safety and choice
A trauma-informed assessment explores symptoms without requiring unnecessary detailed retelling at the first meeting. It considers current safety, depression, dissociation, substance use, grief, physical injury and other conditions. Timing, cultural context and repeated or ongoing trauma also matter.
Treatment
Trauma-focused psychotherapies—including trauma-focused CBT approaches and EMDR—are recommended options when delivered by appropriately trained professionals. Treatment includes preparation, a shared plan and ongoing attention to safety and stability. Medication may be considered by a doctor in some cases.