Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder than can take place after experiencing one or more traumatic events. While many people experience short-term symptoms of trauma, about 1 in 3 in St. John’s will continue to live with symptoms over an extended period of time.
It’s normal to feel strong emotions after experiencing a traumatic event. If the symptoms persist for more than a month and start to affect your daily life, you may be experiencing PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD
Talking with a professional counsellor can help sufferers of PTSD cope with some of the symptoms that include ….
- Re-experiencing – including flashbacks and nightmares
- Avoidance – of people or places
- Hypervigilance – unable to relax due to being ‘always on guard’
- Feelings of guilt, shame or blame
- Trouble sleeping and nightmares
- Increased drinking
Events that can cause PTSD
PTSD can stem from many different traumatic events. Some common events include:
- accidents
- assault
- rape
- military combat
- injury
- fire
- natural disasters
How can counselling help PTSD?
Our therapists can provide a confidential, safe, place in St. John’s where you can find help for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
- learn strategies to cope with your PTSD symptoms including nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks and anxiety
- discover how our body responds to traumatic events
- build skills to manage stressful situations that you experience in the future
- understand external factors that can contribute to your PTSD
- rebuild your confidence
- regain control of your life
