Trauma is a profound psychological response to a distressing or life-threatening event. It can lead to various emotional disturbances, including extreme anxiety, anger, sadness, survivor’s guilt, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
When Does Trauma Become PTSD?
While many people experience temporary difficulty adjusting and coping after a traumatic event, they often find that with time and proper self-care, their symptoms gradually improve. However, for some, the symptoms can persist or even worsen over time, disrupting their daily lives and functioning. If your symptoms intensify or linger for months or even years after the event, you might be experiencing PTSD.
Recognising PTSD Symptoms
PTSD symptoms can manifest immediately after a traumatic event, but they can also emerge months or even years later. These symptoms can significantly impact your social life, work, relationships, and everyday activities. However, it’s important to remember that despite the severity of these symptoms, PTSD treatment can help you regain control.
Common PTSD Symptoms Include:
- Intrusive Memories: Reliving distressing memories, flashbacks, nightmares, and severe emotional distress.
- Avoidance: Avoiding thoughts, discussions, places, or people associated with the trauma.
- Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Persistent negative thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, detachment from loved ones, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
- Physical and Emotional Reactions: Hypervigilance, self-destructive behaviour, sleep disturbances, irritability, and overwhelming guilt or shame.
PTSD in Children
Children under 6 years old may also show signs of PTSD, including re-enacting the traumatic event through play or experiencing frightening dreams.
Getting Help for PTSD
If you identify with any of the symptoms listed above, whether from one category or across several, you may be suffering from PTSD. It’s important to understand that this is not a reflection of personal failure – and it is treatable.
How We Can Help
At Mind Health Collective, we offer a comprehensive range of trauma-specific therapies that provide deep and lasting relief from various forms of trauma. Our team of psychologists and trauma specialists is at the forefront of trauma treatment, employing cutting-edge modalities like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Schema Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Your Path to Healing
We understand that every trauma is unique, which is why we provide personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. You don’t have to face this journey alone—effective, compassionate care is available.