Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events. The NHS estimates that around 1 in 3 people who have a traumatic experience are affected by PTSD.

PTSD can start weeks, months or even years after the event.

What can cause PTSD?

Any situation a person finds traumatic, for example:

• serious accidents
• physical or sexual assault
• abuse, including childhood or domestic abuse
• serious health problems or childbirth experiences
• the sudden death of someone close
• war, conflict or being a refugee
• work in the emergency services, health care or the armed forces

Symptoms

• reliving the event: flashbacks, nightmares, and distressing images or feelings
• avoiding reminders: avoiding people, places or conversations, or trying not to think about it
• feeling on edge: being easily startled, irritable, finding it hard to concentrate or sleep
• negative thoughts and feelings: guilt, shame, feeling numb or cut off from others

Many people also have depression, anxiety or use alcohol or drugs to cope.

Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD can develop after repeated or long-lasting trauma. As well as the symptoms above, people may struggle to control their emotions, feel worthless or ashamed, and find relationships hard.

Getting help

See your GP, or in England refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies. Military veterans in England can refer themselves to Op COURAGE, the NHS veterans mental health service. In Wales, contact Veterans' NHS Wales.

See PTSD treatment.