Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that is onset after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and stress. These symptoms can impact your ability to function and complete daily activities as normal.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur following a person experiencing or being exposed to a terrifying or traumatic incident. The trauma may have been a once off occurrence such as a hijacking, a violent attack or accident, or it may be repeated incidents over time like domestic, sexual, or child abuse. PTSD is a serious disorder that can severely affect a person's ability to function. But treatment is available and patients can learn how to manage their responses to triggers and cope with the distressing effects of the disorder.
PTSD doesn’t only occur from direct experience. It can also develop after witnessing someone close to you experiencing a traumatic or life threatening event.
Recognising symptoms
Not every person experiencing a traumatic event develops PTSD, while some people only develop symptoms several months or even years after the event. PTSD is diagnosed only when symptoms last more than a month and disrupt the person's daily life.
Feeling detached from others or finding it difficult to relate to them
Being easily startled
Nightmares about the traumatic experience
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
Panic attacks or symptoms of severe anxiety
Experiencing flashbacks of the traumatic experience
Feeling ‘jumpy’ or on edge
Feeling extremely irritable
Symptoms of stress are a normal reaction. But when these symptoms persist over time, feel unmanageable, and significantly affect a person’s normal functioning such as day to day ability to manage life, seeking professional help can be a life changing decision.
Our self-assessments can help you better understand and reflect on what you're experiencing, and find the assistance you may need.
PTSD is a complex condition to treat, but it can be managed through an integrated treatment plan combining medication and therapy. Our general psychiatry programme has amassed a great deal of experience in treating patients suffering from PTSD, particularly as this is a growing problem in South Africa. The programme provides a haven where patients can feel safe and recover, and also helps by equipping them and their loved ones with the skills they need to manage their symptoms once they have been discharged.
As part of our commitment to providing the best and safest care to all of our patients, we listen. If you have anything you'd like to ask us, or need assistance accessing our services, please get in touch.