Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that arises after experiencing a traumatic event. Trauma refers to deeply distressing experiences that overwhelm a person’s ability to cope, such as motor vehicle accidents, violent attacks, or life-threatening incidents. When symptoms of trauma persist and interfere with daily life, professional treatment for PTSD can provide a path to recovery.

Common Symptoms of PTSD

Traumatic experiences often lead to symptoms that resolve naturally within days or weeks. However, in some cases, symptoms persist and may develop into PTSD. These symptoms can emerge within three months of the incident or even years later.

What you may not be aware of about
post-traumatic stress disorder...

1

Around 75% of Australian adults
have experienced a
traumatic event

2

An estimated 11% of
Australians will develop PTSD at some point in their life

3

Females are more likely to
develop PTSD than males

4

Approximately 5.7% of Australians experience PTSD symptoms each year

What the research says
about PTSD

PTSD has long been recognised as a significant challenge for those affected. Whether caused by combat experiences, accidents, or assaults, PTSD can impact people of all ages and backgrounds.

Research highlights several effective strategies for treating PTSD, including trauma-focused therapies and medication.

 

Trauma-Focused Therapies for PTSD

The most effective treatments for PTSD are designed to help individuals process and manage their trauma in a structured, supportive way. Common therapies include:

  1. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Focuses on identifying and changing harmful thought patterns related to the trauma.
  2. Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Helps patients confront trauma-related memories and situations in a safe environment to reduce fear and avoidance.
  3. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): Combines cognitive therapy with guided eye movements to help process traumatic memories.

These therapies typically involve 12–20 sessions and can be conducted in person or via telehealth, making them accessible to individuals across Sydney, including the North Shore.

 

Medication and PTSD Treatment

In addition to therapy, certain antidepressants like fluoxetine, venlafaxine, and paroxetine can help manage symptoms of PTSD, such as anxiety and depression. However, medications like benzodiazepines are generally avoided, as they may worsen intrusive symptoms over time.

 

Why Seek Treatment for PTSD

Untreated PTSD can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, relationships, and overall wellbeing. However, with evidence-based therapies and a collaborative approach to care, individuals can effectively manage symptoms and work toward recovery.

*Source: A Review of PTSD and Current Treatment Strategies – National Library of Medicine

Tips for managing post-traumatic stress disorder

Our psychologists are highly qualified, holding Master’s or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology.
We provide treatment for PTSD using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based
treatments like Mindfulness and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).