Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. These events might involve actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. PTSD is characterized by persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life, relationships, and functioning.

Key Symptoms of PTSD

  1. Intrusive Thoughts:

    • Unwanted and distressing memories of the trauma.

    • Flashbacks, where the person feels as though the traumatic event is happening again.

    • Nightmares about the event or related themes.

  2. Avoidance:

    • Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or discussions about the trauma.

    • Steering clear of people, places, or activities that remind the person of the event.

  3. Negative Changes in Mood and Thinking:

    • Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others.

    • Difficulty experiencing positive emotions like happiness or love.

    • Persistent negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world (e.g., "I can't trust anyone").

    • Distorted feelings of blame or guilt related to the trauma.

  4. Hyperarousal and Reactivity:

    • Being easily startled or constantly on edge.

    • Difficulty concentrating or sleeping.

    • Irritability, anger outbursts, or reckless behavior.

Common Causes of PTSD

PTSD can result from various traumatic experiences, such as:

  • Combat or military service.

  • Physical or sexual assault.

  • Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, hurricanes).

  • Serious accidents (e.g., car crashes).

  • The sudden, unexpected loss of a loved one.

  • Prolonged exposure to trauma (e.g., abuse or domestic violence).

Who is at Risk?

While anyone can develop PTSD, factors that increase the likelihood include:

  • Having a history of mental health issues.

  • Lacking social support after the trauma.

  • Experiencing intense or long-lasting trauma.

  • Having a family history of PTSD or other mental health conditions.

Diagnosis and Treatment

  1. Diagnosis:

    • PTSD is typically diagnosed by a mental health professional using criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

    • Symptoms must persist for more than a month and significantly impact functioning.

  2. Treatment Options:

    • Psychotherapy:

      • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns.

      • Exposure Therapy: Encourages facing and processing traumatic memories in a safe environment.

      • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to help process and reframe trauma.

    • Medications:

      • Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, are commonly prescribed.

    • Self-Care and Support:

      • Peer support groups.

      • Relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or yoga.

      • Building a strong support system.

When to Seek Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD that interfere with daily life or relationships, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Early intervention can improve outcomes and reduce the severity of symptoms over time.

If you suspect that you or someone you know has PTSD, seeking a comprehensive evaluation is the best first step.  It can help to confirm the diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan. The Soke offers assessment and treatment pathways for both adults and children, in our Chelsea and Wimbledon sites. Please note that as an outpatient centre, we cannot help with those who are chronically unwell and require inpatient services. We also provide support and training for individuals, families, schools and organisations who want to better manage the relationship with the diagnosed individual. Please contact our Client Services team to discuss your symptoms - or the symptoms of your loved one - so that they can guide you towards the most appropriate solution to suit your particular circumstances. They can also be reached on 020 7139 5051.