PTSD: recognize and treat
When trauma persists
Dr. Chloé Vidal
Psychiatrist
In simple terms
EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure: validated therapies for PTSD.
A response to extreme trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder occurs after exposure to a traumatic event (attack, accident, violence, war, abuse). About 6% of the population will be affected during their lifetime.
Symptoms
- Re-experiencing: flashbacks, nightmares, distress upon reminder
- Avoidance of related places, people, thoughts
- Negative alterations in mood and cognition
- Hyperarousal: irritability, hypervigilance, sleep disturbances
First-line treatments
Trauma-focused CBT, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), prolonged exposure therapy. Effectiveness demonstrated.
Medications
SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine): first-line. Prazosin for nightmares. Avoid benzodiazepines (worsen the disease in the long term).
Innovative approaches
MDMA-assisted therapy in clinical trials. Group therapies, social and family support are essential.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is PTSD: recognize and treat?
- EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure: validated therapies for PTSD.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of PTSD: recognize and treat?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for PTSD: recognize and treat?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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