Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can occur after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Trauma may include military combat, sexual or physical assault, natural disasters, accidents, or any event involving actual or threatened harm.
Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD, but for those who do, the symptoms can deeply affect daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Recognizing and Diagnosing PTSD
A diagnosis of PTSD must be made by a licensed mental health professional—such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical therapist—using the DSM-5 criteria. To meet diagnostic criteria, a person must experience:
- Exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence
- One or more intrusion symptoms (e.g., flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive memories)
- Persistent avoidance of trauma-related reminders
- Negative changes in thoughts and mood
- Heightened arousal or reactivity
- Symptoms lasting at least one month
- Significant distress or impairment in major areas of life
- Symptoms not explained by medication or substance use
PTSD symptoms fall into four main categories:
Intrusive Thoughts
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Distressing memories
- Intense emotional or physical reactions to reminders
Avoidance
- Avoiding people, places, conversations, or activities linked to the trauma
- Emotional numbing or detachment
Negative Changes in Mood & Cognition
- Persistent fear, guilt, shame, or anger
- Negative beliefs about oneself or the world
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
Hyperarousal & Reactivity
- Irritability or anger
- Feeling constantly "on edge"
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Exaggerated startle response
- Panic or anxiety surges
Symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go over time.
What Causes PTSD?
PTSD can result from experiencing or witnessing any traumatic or life-threatening event. Common causes include:
- Military combat
- Physical or sexual assault
- Natural disasters
- Car accidents or serious injuries
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- War, violence, or conflict
Anyone can develop PTSD—including children, adults, and first responders repeatedly exposed to trauma.
Treatment for PTSD
PTSD is treatable, especially with trauma-informed care. Most people benefit from a combination of therapy and, when needed, medication.
Therapies Proven to Help PTSD
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Helps identify and change unhelpful thought patterns related to the trauma.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements or tapping) to help reprocess traumatic memories.
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) Gradually helps individuals confront trauma reminders in a safe, controlled setting.
In some cases, medications—usually SSRIs—are prescribed to ease anxiety, depression, or sleep problems. Medication is most effective when combined with therapy.
Finding Support for PTSD
Seeking help is a strong first step. Talk to your primary care doctor or a mental health provider to discuss the best treatment path. Treatment levels include:
- Outpatient (OP): 1–2 sessions per week
- Intensive Outpatient (IOP): 3–5 sessions weekly
- Partial Hospitalization (PHP): 5–7 days a week, full-day treatment
- Residential: Live-in care for 28+ days
- Inpatient: 24/7 hospital-based monitoring for severe symptoms
Questions to Ask Your Provider
- What treatment options are best for my symptoms?
- How will therapy help me process trauma?
- Are medications recommended, and what are their side effects?
- What should I do during a severe flare-up or crisis?
- Are there lifestyle changes that can reduce symptoms?
- How often will my progress be monitored?
How to Support Someone with PTSD
Supporting a loved one with PTSD requires patience and compassion. Helpful steps include:
- Listening without judgment
- Validating their feelings
- Encouraging professional treatment
- Learning more about PTSD to better understand their experience
- Offering help with practical tasks or attending appointments with them
- Creating a calm, predictable, and safe environment
Understanding their triggers and respecting boundaries can make a meaningful difference.
