Trauma can change how everyday life feels. Sleep may become difficult. Familiar places may feel unsettling. You might find yourself constantly on edge, disconnected from people you care about, or avoiding things you once enjoyed.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event. It can involve intrusive memories, avoidance, changes in mood and feeling persistently unsafe or alert. Effective treatments are available, and recovery is possible.
Understanding what you are experiencing can be a first step towards getting support. You do not need to have a diagnosis before asking for help.
Download our trauma and PTSD fact sheet
Healthdirect explains that trauma describes the emotional and psychological impact of experiencing or witnessing an overwhelming or threatening event. It may follow a serious accident, violence, abuse, a natural disaster or a life-threatening experience. For some people, it relates to repeated experiences over time.
People respond differently. Some notice changes straight away; others recognise the impact later. Experiencing distress after trauma does not automatically mean you have PTSD.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition in which trauma-related symptoms continue and interfere with everyday life. A person may feel as though the threat is still present, even when the traumatic event has ended.
PTSD can affect sleep, concentration, relationships and the ability to work or manage daily responsibilities. A qualified health professional can assess your symptoms and discuss appropriate treatment.
PTSD symptoms vary, but commonly include:
Some people also use alcohol or other substances to cope with distress. If this is happening, it is worth discussing with a health professional so both concerns can be considered together.
These experiences can occur with other mental health conditions too. A symptom checklist cannot confirm a diagnosis.
These terms are related, but they describe different experiences.
Trauma refers to the impact of an overwhelming or threatening experience. Many people recover without developing PTSD.
PTSD involves ongoing trauma-related symptoms, including reliving the event, avoiding reminders and feeling persistently alert or unsafe.
Healthdirect explains that complex PTSD includes the core symptoms of PTSD alongside persistent difficulties managing emotions, a negative sense of self and difficulties in relationships. It is often associated with prolonged or repeated trauma, particularly when a person has felt unable to escape or remain safe.
An assessment can help clarify what you are experiencing and which support may be appropriate.
Seek professional support if symptoms persist, worsen or interfere with your daily life. This might mean nightmares disrupting sleep, avoiding work or social situations, feeling disconnected from loved ones, or relying on alcohol or other substances to get through the day.
You do not need to wait until things become unmanageable. Your GP can be a useful first point of contact and may recommend assessment by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
It is also reasonable to seek help when you are unsure what is wrong. You can start by describing how you have been feeling and what has changed.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department. For crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, available 24 hours a day.
PTSD treatment is tailored to the individual. Australian PTSD treatment guidelines recommend trauma-focused psychological therapies for adults with PTSD. These include trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR). These recommendations are outlined in the guidelines from Phoenix Australia.
A treating clinician can explain these approaches and help identify a suitable option. Medication may also be considered, depending on symptoms, preferences and other health needs.
Support may include psychiatric review, strategies for managing distress, group programs and help with related concerns such as depression, anxiety or substance use. Some people need inpatient mental health care when additional support is required.
The therapies available through a particular service should be discussed with the treating team. Treatment decisions depend on clinical assessment and individual circumstances.
Recovery can mean sleeping more comfortably, feeling safer, managing distress and reconnecting with relationships, work or activities that matter to you.
Progress looks different for everyone. Treatment can help even when the traumatic experience happened a long time ago. There is no single timetable, and support can be adjusted as your needs change.
You do not need to have all the answers to be supportive. Listening, respecting boundaries and staying connected can help.
A simple question such as “Would you like me to listen, or help you find support?” can make it easier to understand what someone needs.
Avive provides connected mental health care for people experiencing PTSD, complex trauma and related mental health concerns. Our trauma-informed approach recognises the importance of safety, trust and helping people regain confidence and connection.
Depending on individual needs, suitability and service availability, care may include:
Our team works with patients, families and referrers to help identify an appropriate level of care. Program availability, referral requirements and eligibility vary between services.
To discuss inpatient admissions or day programs, call Avive on 1800 284 830 or email help@avivehealth.com.au.
Our private mental health hospitals are Avive Clinic Brisbane (Windsor), Avive Clinic Melbourne (Alphington) and Avive Clinic Mornington Peninsula (Mount Eliza).
You can ask about available services, the referral process and what information is needed for an assessment.
No. Many people experience distress after a traumatic event and recover over time without developing PTSD. If symptoms continue or affect everyday life, a health professional can help assess what is happening.
Yes. Effective treatment is available even when the traumatic experience happened many years ago. A clinician can assess your current symptoms and discuss treatment options.
You can begin by explaining your symptoms and how they affect your life. Let the clinician know if discussing the experience feels difficult. They can explain what information is needed for assessment and work with you on how to approach it.
No. PTSD can be treated in outpatient settings. Inpatient treatment may be considered when more intensive support is needed. The appropriate setting depends on a clinical assessment of your symptoms, safety and support needs.
Yes. You can contact Avive to ask about services and referral requirements. Our team can explain the next steps; diagnosis and treatment recommendations require assessment by a qualified health professional.
You may also find these resources helpful:
This article has been developed by Avive Health as general educational information about trauma, PTSD and support pathways, and clinically reviewed by Dr Megan Deutsher, PhD.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual experiences and treatment pathways vary. Speak with a qualified health professional about your needs.
