What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event — such as combat, assault, accidents, natural disasters, or sudden loss.
PTSD changes how the brain processes fear and memory, leading to persistent symptoms that disrupt daily life. It is not a sign of weakness — it is a recognized, treatable psychiatric disorder.
How Trauma Affects the Brain
Key areas involved in fear, memory, and stress response
PTSD at a Glance
Symptoms, prevalence, and treatability
Causes & Risk Factors
Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD. Risk is influenced by:
- Type & Severity: Direct, life-threatening, or repeated trauma increases likelihood
- Biological: Genetics, stress hormone dysregulation, brain changes
- Personal: Previous trauma, childhood adversity, difficulty regulating emotions
- Environmental: Lack of support after trauma, ongoing stress, isolation
Symptoms of PTSD
1. Intrusive Symptoms
- Recurrent distressing memories or flashbacks
- Trauma-related nightmares
- Intense distress at reminders (triggers)
2. Avoidance
- Avoiding trauma-related places, people, conversations
- Suppressing thoughts or feelings about the event
3. Negative Changes in Mood & Thinking
- Persistent negative emotions (fear, guilt, shame)
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Loss of interest in activities
- Memory gaps about parts of the trauma
4. Hyperarousal & Reactivity
- Irritability or angry outbursts
- Hypervigilance, easily startled
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
PTSD Symptom Clusters
Intrusive, avoidance, negative cognition, hyperarousal
Recognizing PTSD Signs
Emotional, physical, and behavioral indicators
Treatment Approaches
Psychotherapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – trauma-focused
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Medication
- SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine) – first-line
- Other antidepressants or adjunctive medications
- Prazosin for trauma-related nightmares (in some cases)
Lifestyle & Support
- Safe social connections
- Mindfulness, yoga, exercise
- Consistent routines & sleep hygiene
- Avoiding alcohol/drugs
Proven PTSD Treatments
Therapy types with strongest evidence
PTSD Recovery Roadmap
Therapy, medication, support integration
Conclusion
PTSD is serious, but highly treatable. With trauma-focused therapy (especially Prolonged Exposure, CPT, or EMDR), appropriate medication when needed, and supportive environments, most people can reduce symptoms significantly, process what happened, and rebuild a meaningful life.
Recovery is real — many individuals with PTSD go on to experience renewed stability, connection, and purpose. Seeking help early makes a profound difference.
Hope After Trauma
Strength, healing, and renewed life
Thriving Beyond PTSD
Stability, relationships, and purpose restored