Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A condition that can develop after a frightening or distressing event, causing flashbacks, nightmares and anxiety.

Mental healthLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Reliving the event through flashbacks or nightmares, avoiding reminders, feeling on edge, being easily startled, and low mood.

Common Treatments

Trauma-focused therapies such as trauma-focused CBT or EMDR, and sometimes medicines.

Risk Factors

Experiencing or witnessing violence, accidents, disasters, abuse or the sudden death of a loved one.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Many people are distressed after trauma. PTSD is when symptoms last more than a month and affect daily life.

Effective treatment is available, even years after the event.

Symptoms

Flashbacks

Reliving the event.

Nightmares

And poor sleep.

Avoidance

Of people, places or thoughts linked to the event.

Hyperarousal

Feeling jumpy, irritable and on edge.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

The brain's stress response stays switched on after trauma.

Key Risk Factors

  • Type of trauma Violence, abuse and life-threatening events.
  • Previous trauma Increases vulnerability.
  • Lack of support After the event.

Management & Treatment

01. Trauma-focused therapy

CBT or EMDR.

02. Medicines

SSRIs such as sertraline.

03. Support

Family, friends and support groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PTSD go away?
With treatment, most people improve.
Can children get PTSD?
Yes, after traumatic experiences.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.