June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day, a day to acknowledge a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Despite its prevalence, PTSD is often misunderstood, and many who suffer from it do so in silence. This article details several key aspects of PTSD, aiming to increase understanding and support for those affected.

  1. What is PTSD?

PTSD is a complex mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Examples of traumatic events include natural disasters, accidents, personal assaults, combat, and other violent incidents. Symptoms of PTSD comprise the following:

While many people who experience trauma may initially have symptoms of PTSD, not everyone develops the condition. The persistence and intensity of symptoms, along with their impact on daily life, distinguish PTSD from other stress responses.

  1. The Prevalence of PTSD

PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, certain populations are at higher risk. For instance, veterans and active-duty military personnel are particularly vulnerable due to their exposure to combat situations. According to the Department of Veterans' Affairs, it is estimated that up to 8% of Australian veterans experience PTSD.

First responders, including paramedics, police officers, and firefighters, are also at a significantly higher risk of developing PTSD due to the nature of their work. The constant exposure to traumatic incidents such as accidents, crimes, and fires, can have a profound impact on their mental health. Studies suggest that around 10% of emergency service workers in Australia are likely to experience PTSD at some point in their careers.

Civilians are not immune either. Approximately 11% of the Australian population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Those who have experienced sexual or physical assault are at heightened risk, as are those who have witnessed or been exposed to other acts of violence.

  1. The Science Behind PTSD

Understanding the neurobiology of PTSD can help demystify the condition. Research shows that PTSD involves changes in the brain's structure and function. For example, the amygdala, the brain region responsible for fear responses, tends to be hyperactive in people with PTSD. Meanwhile, the prefrontal cortex, which helps regulate emotional responses, may be underactive. This imbalance can lead to the heightened fear and anxiety seen in PTSD.

Additionally, PTSD is associated with alterations in neurotransmitter systems, particularly those involving serotonin and dopamine. These changes can affect mood regulation, memory, and the ability to experience pleasure.

  1. Comorbidities and PTSD

PTSD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions. Depression (including suicidal thoughts and behaviours), anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders are common among those with PTSD. These comorbidities can mask the underlying nature of PTSD, complicating diagnosis and treatment, and making it essential for healthcare providers to conduct comprehensive assessments.

Physical health problems are also prevalent in individuals with PTSD. Chronic pain, cardiovascular disease, blood circulation problems, gastrointestinal concerns, and skin issues are more common in this population, possibly due to the prolonged stress and inflammation associated with the condition.

  1. Treatment Options for PTSD

The good news is that effective treatments for PTSD are available. Evidence-based therapies can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life for those affected. Some of the most common treatments include the following:

** It is important to note that the various treatment options for PTSD described here do not work equally for all individuals. Some may benefit more from one type of therapy than another.

  1. The Importance of Support

Support from family, friends, and the community is essential for individuals with PTSD. Social support can provide emotional comfort, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging. It can also encourage individuals to seek treatment and stay engaged in their recovery.If you know someone with PTSD, there are several ways you can offer support:

For more information about PTSD and resources for support, here are some useful links:

PTSD Awareness Day is an opportunity to increase our understanding of this complex mental health condition and support those affected by it. By learning about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of PTSD, we can help reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek the help they need. Recovery is possible, and with the right support, those living with PTSD can lead fulfilling lives.

Dr. Carissa Coulston-Parkinson is a Clinical Psychologist with specialist knowledge in the areas of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, personality disorders, traumatic brain injury and neurological conditions.

SANE provides a range of free telephone and online support services for people over 18 years of age with complex mental health needs and their family, friends and carers. We offer different types and levels of support so you can find what works for you. Choose from counselling, peer support, online groups and events, 24/7 community forums, and online information and resources. Learn more at sane.org/get-support.