September 8, 2026•
8 min read
Trauma-Related
PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It may cause intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance and changes in mood or alertness that interfere with everyday life.
Understanding PTSD symptoms and available treatments can help you take the next step toward recovery.
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Reviewed by:
October 12, 2026
Overview
Understanding PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic or life-threatening event. It may affect people of any age or background, and symptoms can vary in severity and duration. People with PTSD may experience unwanted memories, nightmares, emotional distress, avoidance of trauma-related reminders and a persistent sense of being on guard. These symptoms can affect sleep, relationships, work and everyday activities. PTSD does not develop in everyone who experiences trauma. A person's circumstances, previous experiences and support system may influence how they respond to a traumatic event. With appropriate care, many people learn to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Key Insight
PTSD is more than a temporary reaction to a distressing experience. When symptoms persist and interfere with daily life, a professional assessment can help determine whether PTSD or another trauma-related condition is present.
Treatment Success
Evidence-based treatments, including trauma-focused psychotherapy and certain medications, can help people manage PTSD symptoms. Treatment is individualized according to a person's symptoms, preferences and circumstances.
Symptoms
Signs & Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of ptsd is the first step toward getting help. Symptoms can vary in intensity and may affect different areas of your life.
Intrusive memories or flashbacks
Nightmares about the traumatic event
Severe emotional distress when reminded of trauma
Avoiding places, people, or activities that remind you of trauma
Negative changes in thoughts and mood
Feeling detached or emotionally numb
Being easily startled or hypervigilant
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Causes
What Causes PTSD
PTSD typically results from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Understanding these can help guide effective treatment.
Experiencing or witnessing traumatic events
Military combat exposure
Childhood abuse or neglect
Accidents or natural disasters
Assault or violence
Sudden loss of a loved one
Treatment
How We Treat PTSD
At Integrative Behavioral Health & Medicine, we use evidence-based approaches tailored to your unique needs. Our comprehensive treatment plans combine multiple modalities for the best outcomes.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Trauma-focused CBT
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
Medication management
Group therapy for trauma survivors
Mindfulness and grounding techniques
Recovery
Self-Help Strategies
While professional treatment is important, there are evidence-based strategies you can practice on your own to help manage ptsd symptoms.
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
Engage in regular physical exercise
Practice stress management techniques
Stay connected with supportive people
Limit alcohol and substance use
Seek professional help when needed
Remember
These strategies work best when combined with professional treatment. They are not a substitute for therapy or medication when needed.
Support
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek Immediate Help If:
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Inability to perform daily activities
Severe panic attacks or dissociation
Substance use to cope with symptoms
Consider Treatment If:
Symptoms of ptsd lasting more than 2 weeks
Difficulty functioning at work, school, or in relationships
Sleep disturbances affecting daily life
Previous treatments haven't provided relief
Crisis Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Call or text: 988
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about eating disorders, treatment options, and what to expect during your care.
PTSD symptoms typically begin within 3 months of trauma, but can appear years later. Early intervention after trauma can help prevent PTSD development.
While some therapies involve processing traumatic memories, this is done gradually and safely. Other approaches focus on managing symptoms without detailed trauma discussion.
Many people experience significant improvement or full remission of symptoms with proper treatment. Evidence-based therapies like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT are highly effective.
Multiple factors influence PTSD development, including trauma severity, prior trauma history, support systems, coping skills, and biological factors.
Yes, PTSD is associated with various physical health issues including cardiovascular problems, chronic pain, autoimmune conditions, and sleep disorders.
Evidence
Our Source/References
- [1]National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- [2]National Center for PTSD – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- [3]National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – Post-traumatic stress disorder
- [4]NHS – Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- [5]NIMH – Psychotherapies
- [6]988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Ready to Get Help?
Our specialists are here to help you understand and manage your condition.