Some people who experience or witness a traumatic event go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
During a traumatic experience, a person might feel intense fear, helplessness, anxiety or horror. These are normal reactions but in people who develop PTSD, these feelings recur long after the original traumatic event has passed.
An experience that is traumatic for one person may be less traumatic for another. Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event develops PTSD; research suggests about 30% do. The condition can occur at any age. Some people are more likely to develop PTSD. For example, the condition is more common in women than in men.
Experiences that may lead to PTSD include:
- war
- terrorism
- natural disasters
- abuse
- complications of childbirth
- serious road accidents
- witnessing a death.
In some people PTSD develops immediately after the trauma, while in others the symptoms first appear several months, or even years, after the traumatic experience.
Common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
People with PTSD typically experience:
- recurring distressing memories
- vivid flashbacks or images of the traumatic event
- dreams and intrusive thoughts about the traumatic experience.
- avoiding anything that can trigger memories of the trauma
- feeling emotionally numb
- feeling detached from other people
- difficulty expressing affection
- pessimistic feelings about the future
- problems sleeping
- poor focus on everyday tasks
- feeling unsafe, even in places that felt safe before the traumatic event
- increased general anxiety or hypervigilance
- irritable or aggressive behaviour
- problems trusting other people
- depression.
Treatment options for PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder can be effectively treated with talking therapy, sometimes accompanied by medication. It is important to work with a therapist experienced in trauma; many of our therapists have further training in this area. Some are also trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitisation reprocessing), a type of therapy that has been shown to be particularly effective in some cases of PTSD.
In trauma therapy, we are careful to go at your pace. Rushing the process can make things worse, so we never push you to talk about anything before you are ready. Discussions in therapy are confidential, between you and your therapist.
Although your memories of the traumatic event will never disappear completely, with therapy they become less persistent and troublesome. Difficult emotions and other symptoms you are experiencing will reduce, leaving you better able to lead your life as you want to.
We know it can be daunting to start therapy, but our warm and empathic counsellors will put you at ease. The initial consultation is an opportunity for you to find out more and decide if you want to continue with therapy. There’s no pressure. If the counsellor you meet for your initial consultation doesn’t feel like the right fit for you, they will be happy to refer you to a colleague.
To take the next step towards overcoming your PTSD, contact us or book online.
Meet our therapists working with PTSD
