PTSD

But if symptoms persist, intensify, or disrupt daily life, they may signal Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

For some, PTSD feels like the effects of the trauma never fully fade, but therapy can help you process the experience and rebuild a sense of safety.

What is PTSD?

PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing trauma such as accidents, assaults, natural disasters, or combat. In some cases, it follows prolonged or repeated trauma, known as Complex PTSD (C-PTSD).

With PTSD, the nervous system becomes “stuck,” replaying the event as if it’s still happening.

This can lead to intrusive memories, avoidance, and heightened arousal.

Symptoms of PTSD

• Intrusive flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted memories

• Avoidance of reminders, places, or conversations linked to the trauma

• Feeling constantly on guard or easily startled

• Difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or relaxing

• Emotional numbness, detachment, or irritability

• Guilt, shame, or negative changes in mood

Types of PTSD

• PTSD: symptoms lasting longer than one month after trauma

• Complex PTSD: develops after chronic trauma, often in childhood or relationships, and includes difficulties with self-esteem, trust, and emotion regulation

How Therapy Can Help with PTSD

Therapy provides both stabilisation skills and trauma processing:

• Trauma-focused CBT: helps process traumatic memories and reduce avoidance

• EMDR: uses bilateral stimulation to reprocess trauma and reduce distress

• Compassion-Focused Therapy: addresses shame or self-blame related to trauma

• Schema Therapy: explores the deeper impact of long-term or repeated trauma

• Stabilisation techniques: grounding, mindfulness, and self-soothing to build safety before deeper trauma work

Therapy is tailored to your pace and readiness, always working within a safe and supportive relationship.

When to Seek Help

If trauma symptoms continue months or years after the event, or if they interfere with relationships, sleep, or your ability to feel safe, therapy can help. PTSD is treatable, and recovery is possible.