Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental illness. It develops when someone has experienced something very traumatic—such as an accident, war, or violence.

The traumatic event can:

• happen once, such as a car accident or robbery,
• happen repeatedly, such as sexual abuse,
• or continue over a long period of time, such as in war.

Some people experience it directly, others see it happen to someone else. Many people are able to process such experiences over time. But for some, the psychological trauma remains. Then the bad memories keep coming back – this is called PTSD.

The signs of PTSD can appear immediately after the traumatic experience – or weeks or months later. If the reaction is immediate, it is called an “acute stress reaction.” Typical symptoms include strong feelings such as fear, helplessness, or a feeling of losing control.

Common symptoms of PTSD include:

• Intense memories: The traumatic situation keeps coming back to mind—for example, in dreams or sudden flashbacks. It feels as if you are reliving the whole thing.
• Avoidance: Those affected avoid places, people, sounds, or smells that remind them of the trauma.
• Withdrawal: Some people withdraw, no longer want to talk to anyone, or lose interest in things they used to enjoy.
• Tension and jumpiness: Many are constantly nervous, easily startled, and always “on alert.” They often sleep poorly, even when there is no real danger.

PTSD can be triggered by very stressful experiences. These include, for example:

• Flight and displacement
• Violence or assault
• War
• Sexual abuse
• Serious accidents
• Natural disasters
• Serious illnesses or medical emergencies
• The death of a loved one

Whether someone develops PTSD after such an experience depends on several factors:

• What exactly happened
• How bad it was and how long it lasted
• Whether it happened frequently

But your own ability to cope with stress is also important. Some people process experiences differently and are more resilient, or simply have more or better support. Others may have had mental health problems before and therefore react more intensely to new negative life experiences—this also plays a role.

Treatment—Can PTSD be cured?

Yes, PTSD can be treated—many sufferers recover over time. About 30 out of 100 people no longer have symptoms after one year. Therapy often helps. There are various options:

1. Behavioral therapy:

In a special type of therapy (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy), those affected learn to deal with the traumatic experience. This helps them to process their memories and reduce their symptoms.

One particular method is EMDR:

The therapist moves a finger in front of the patient's eyes, and the patient follows the movement with their eyes. Meanwhile, they think about the traumatic experience. These eye movements help the brain to process what has happened more effectively. Exactly how this works has not yet been fully researched – but it is often effective.

2. Medication:

Some people are also given medication, primarily antidepressants (e.g., with the active ingredients sertraline, paroxetine, or venlafaxine). These are intended to support therapy, but should not be used alone. Sedatives should be avoided.

3. Additional support:

Other services such as art, music, or movement therapy, or personal psychosocial support from Albatros, can certainly help. Please contact Albatros if you are unsure whether you are suffering from PTSD or if you would like support.

PTSD is treatable. Good therapy can help you live a better life again.

Progression and chances of recovery from PTSD

PTSD can progress differently in each person. Many people manage to process the traumatic experience over time. Some feel better after just one year – in rare cases, even without therapy.

However, in about 30 out of 100 people affected, the symptoms persist for more than three years. Some also develop other mental health problems, such as addiction.

What helps those affected and their families?

• Talking helps: It is important to talk to people you trust about what you have experienced—for example, family, partners, friends, or Albatros counselors who speak your native language. They are happy to advise you in a highly professional and strictly confidential manner.

• Seek help early: Therapy can be very helpful. The sooner you see a psychotherapist, the better.

• Talk to others: Support groups can help you feel understood.

What relatives can do:

• Take PTSD seriously.

• Listen patiently – even if the experience is recounted frequently.

• Encourage the person to seek help – and, if necessary, assist them in finding therapy.

Important:

If the person affected talks about suicide, family members must act immediately:

• Inform a doctor

• Call a telephone counseling service: 0800 – 111 0 111 (free of charge and available around the clock)

• In case of acute danger: Call an emergency doctor – for rapid admission to a psychiatric clinic.