Post-traumatic stress disorder

Traumatic experiences can affect how a person feels, thinks, remembers and relates to the world afterwards. Most people who experience frightening events do not develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but some continue to experience distressing symptoms that interfere with daily life. These responses are not a sign of weakness; they reflect how the mind and body can remain affected after danger has passed.

1. What is PTSD?

PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violence. Symptoms may include unwanted memories, nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of reminders, persistent alertness, irritability, sleep disruption and a sense that danger is still present. The experience varies, and not everyone has every symptom.

2. Why can symptoms persist?

The nervous system may continue to respond as though threat is imminent. Sounds, places, sensations or interpersonal situations can trigger strong reactions before a person has consciously identified what reminded them of the event. Avoiding reminders may offer immediate relief, yet over time it can restrict daily life. Shame, disbelief, ongoing danger and limited support can complicate recovery.

3. Assessment and diagnosis

A professional assessment considers the nature and duration of symptoms, their impact on functioning, relevant history and whether other conditions or physical factors may be contributing. Symptoms generally persist for more than a month for PTSD, although distress can warrant support much earlier. A person does not need to describe every detail of a traumatic event at a first appointment to seek help.

4. Treatment and support

Evidence-based treatments may include trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), delivered by appropriately trained practitioners. Treatment is paced collaboratively, with attention to safety, consent and the person's ability to tolerate distress. Sleep, relationships and practical stability may also need support. Recovery does not require forgetting what happened.

5. Moving towards recovery

Symptoms may improve gradually and not always in a straight line. Understanding triggers, developing grounding strategies and reconnecting with trusted people can help. If the traumatic situation is continuing, practical protection and support are important. There is no single timetable for recovery, and treatment should be adjusted to individual needs.

When to seek urgent help

If symptoms are severe, worsening rapidly or make it difficult to remain safe, seek urgent professional support. In England, contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option for urgent support. If there is immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.