Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Emotional and physical reactions after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, including flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened alertness.
Overview
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as abuse, accidents, violence, or sudden loss. People with PTSD often experience intrusive memories, nightmares, emotional numbness, and heightened alertness. Everyday situations may trigger intense fear or distress. PTSD can affect relationships, sleep, and ability to feel safe. With trauma-informed therapy, individuals can process the experience, reduce symptoms, and rebuild a sense of inner stability and trust.
Symptoms
Causes
Flashbacks or intrusive memories
Nightmares or disturbed sleep
Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
Irritability or emotional numbness
Avoiding reminders of trauma
Feeling disconnected or detached
Difficulty focusing
Accidents or injuries
Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
Natural disasters
Medical trauma
Childhood neglect or instability
Witnessing violence
How Therapy Can Help
Trauma-Focused CBT
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)
Somatic Experiencing
Mindfulness and grounding practices
Supportive therapy and safety-building
