Understanding
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
PTSD develops following traumatic experiences, causing intrusive memories, avoidance behaviours, and heightened anxiety that significantly impact daily life and relationships.
Understanding
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
PTSD develops following traumatic experiences, causing intrusive memories, avoidance behaviours, and heightened anxiety that significantly impact daily life and relationships.
Understanding
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
PTSD develops following traumatic experiences, causing intrusive memories, avoidance behaviours, and heightened anxiety that significantly impact daily life and relationships.
What does PTSD feel like?
Living with PTSD means experiencing the trauma repeatedly through intrusive flashbacks, nightmares, and overwhelming emotional reactions that make the past feel present and dangerous. The mind becomes hypervigilant, constantly scanning for threats, whilst simultaneously trying to avoid anything that might trigger traumatic memories. This creates an exhausting cycle of being both on high alert and emotionally numb, often leaving individuals feeling disconnected from themselves and others.
The experience involves feeling unsafe in your own mind and body, with normal situations potentially triggering intense fear responses that feel completely out of proportion to the current reality. Many people describe feeling like they're living in survival mode, unable to fully relax or trust that they're truly safe, even in secure environments.
Common Symptoms
Intrusive flashbacks and nightmares
Severe anxiety and panic responses
Avoidance of trauma-related triggers
Emotional numbness and detachment
Hypervigilance and being easily startled
Sleep disturbances and concentration problems
Irritability and angry outbursts
Feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame
What does PTSD feel like?
Living with PTSD means experiencing the trauma repeatedly through intrusive flashbacks, nightmares, and overwhelming emotional reactions that make the past feel present and dangerous. The mind becomes hypervigilant, constantly scanning for threats, whilst simultaneously trying to avoid anything that might trigger traumatic memories. This creates an exhausting cycle of being both on high alert and emotionally numb, often leaving individuals feeling disconnected from themselves and others.
The experience involves feeling unsafe in your own mind and body, with normal situations potentially triggering intense fear responses that feel completely out of proportion to the current reality. Many people describe feeling like they're living in survival mode, unable to fully relax or trust that they're truly safe, even in secure environments.
Common Symptoms
Intrusive flashbacks and nightmares
Severe anxiety and panic responses
Avoidance of trauma-related triggers
Emotional numbness and detachment
Hypervigilance and being easily startled
Sleep disturbances and concentration problems
Irritability and angry outbursts
Feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame
What does PTSD feel like?
Living with PTSD means experiencing the trauma repeatedly through intrusive flashbacks, nightmares, and overwhelming emotional reactions that make the past feel present and dangerous. The mind becomes hypervigilant, constantly scanning for threats, whilst simultaneously trying to avoid anything that might trigger traumatic memories. This creates an exhausting cycle of being both on high alert and emotionally numb, often leaving individuals feeling disconnected from themselves and others.
The experience involves feeling unsafe in your own mind and body, with normal situations potentially triggering intense fear responses that feel completely out of proportion to the current reality. Many people describe feeling like they're living in survival mode, unable to fully relax or trust that they're truly safe, even in secure environments.
Common Symptoms
Intrusive flashbacks and nightmares
Severe anxiety and panic responses
Avoidance of trauma-related triggers
Emotional numbness and detachment
Hypervigilance and being easily startled
Sleep disturbances and concentration problems
Irritability and angry outbursts
Feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame
History of PTSD
From shell shock to modern trauma-informed understanding and treatment
1860s
"Soldier's Heart" was documented during the American Civil War, describing persistent psychological symptoms in veterans, though understanding was limited to physical explanations of cardiac strain.
World War I
"Shell shock" became widely recognised, with physicians noting that psychological trauma could occur without physical injury, challenging previous beliefs about combat-related mental health conditions.
1980
PTSD was first officially included in the DSM-III following advocacy by Vietnam War veterans, establishing trauma as a legitimate cause of long-term psychological distress requiring professional treatment.
Present
PTSD is understood to affect 3-4% of adults annually, with evidence-based treatments like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT providing effective recovery pathways for trauma survivors worldwide.
History of PTSD
From shell shock to modern trauma-informed understanding and treatment
1860s
"Soldier's Heart" was documented during the American Civil War, describing persistent psychological symptoms in veterans, though understanding was limited to physical explanations of cardiac strain.
World War I
"Shell shock" became widely recognised, with physicians noting that psychological trauma could occur without physical injury, challenging previous beliefs about combat-related mental health conditions.
1980
PTSD was first officially included in the DSM-III following advocacy by Vietnam War veterans, establishing trauma as a legitimate cause of long-term psychological distress requiring professional treatment.
Present
PTSD is understood to affect 3-4% of adults annually, with evidence-based treatments like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT providing effective recovery pathways for trauma survivors worldwide.
History of PTSD
From shell shock to modern trauma-informed understanding and treatment
1860s
"Soldier's Heart" was documented during the American Civil War, describing persistent psychological symptoms in veterans, though understanding was limited to physical explanations of cardiac strain.
World War I
"Shell shock" became widely recognised, with physicians noting that psychological trauma could occur without physical injury, challenging previous beliefs about combat-related mental health conditions.
1980
PTSD was first officially included in the DSM-III following advocacy by Vietnam War veterans, establishing trauma as a legitimate cause of long-term psychological distress requiring professional treatment.
Present
PTSD is understood to affect 3-4% of adults annually, with evidence-based treatments like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT providing effective recovery pathways for trauma survivors worldwide.
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer based on the last 2 weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test screens for PTSD symptoms. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Therapy for PTSD uses specialised trauma-focused approaches like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), and narrative exposure therapy to help process traumatic memories safely. These treatments help reduce the emotional charge of traumatic memories whilst developing healthy coping strategies and rebuilding a sense of safety and control. Therapists create supportive environments where individuals can gradually work through trauma at their own pace.
Modern trauma therapy recognises that healing involves both processing the past and building resilience for the future, helping individuals reclaim their sense of agency and develop post-traumatic growth. Many people find significant relief within months of beginning trauma-focused treatment.
Benefits of Therapy
Reduced flashbacks and nightmares
Decreased anxiety and hypervigilance
Improved sleep and concentration
Better emotional regulation
Increased sense of safety and control
Stronger relationships and social connection
Enhanced daily functioning and quality of life
Development of post-traumatic growth and resilience
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PTSD, trauma recovery, and effective treatment approaches
Can PTSD develop from any traumatic event?
PTSD can develop following various traumatic experiences including accidents, violence, natural disasters, medical emergencies, or witnessing traumatic events. The key factor isn't the type of trauma but how it affects the individual. Some people develop PTSD after events others might cope with differently, and this doesn't indicate weakness - trauma responses are normal reactions to abnormal situations requiring professional support.
How long after trauma does PTSD typically develop?
PTSD symptoms can appear immediately after trauma or may be delayed for months or even years. Acute stress reactions in the first month are normal, but when symptoms persist beyond a month and significantly impact functioning, PTSD may be diagnosed. Some people experience delayed-onset PTSD, where symptoms emerge long after the traumatic event, often triggered by life stressors or reminders.
Is it possible to fully recover from PTSD?
Yes, many people make full recoveries from PTSD with appropriate treatment. Evidence-based therapies like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT have high success rates, with many individuals experiencing significant symptom reduction or complete remission. Recovery doesn't mean forgetting the trauma, but rather processing it in a way that no longer controls daily life. Many people also experience post-traumatic growth, finding new strength and meaning.
Will talking about trauma in therapy make symptoms worse?
While processing trauma can temporarily increase distress, qualified trauma therapists use careful pacing and stabilisation techniques to ensure safety throughout treatment. Modern trauma therapies are designed to avoid re-traumatisation, helping you process memories gradually and at a manageable pace. Most people find that addressing trauma directly, with proper support, leads to significant improvement rather than worsening symptoms.
How therapy can help
Therapy for PTSD uses specialised trauma-focused approaches like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), and narrative exposure therapy to help process traumatic memories safely. These treatments help reduce the emotional charge of traumatic memories whilst developing healthy coping strategies and rebuilding a sense of safety and control. Therapists create supportive environments where individuals can gradually work through trauma at their own pace.
Modern trauma therapy recognises that healing involves both processing the past and building resilience for the future, helping individuals reclaim their sense of agency and develop post-traumatic growth. Many people find significant relief within months of beginning trauma-focused treatment.
Benefits of Therapy
Reduced flashbacks and nightmares
Decreased anxiety and hypervigilance
Improved sleep and concentration
Better emotional regulation
Increased sense of safety and control
Stronger relationships and social connection
Enhanced daily functioning and quality of life
Development of post-traumatic growth and resilience
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PTSD, trauma recovery, and effective treatment approaches
Can PTSD develop from any traumatic event?
PTSD can develop following various traumatic experiences including accidents, violence, natural disasters, medical emergencies, or witnessing traumatic events. The key factor isn't the type of trauma but how it affects the individual. Some people develop PTSD after events others might cope with differently, and this doesn't indicate weakness - trauma responses are normal reactions to abnormal situations requiring professional support.
How long after trauma does PTSD typically develop?
PTSD symptoms can appear immediately after trauma or may be delayed for months or even years. Acute stress reactions in the first month are normal, but when symptoms persist beyond a month and significantly impact functioning, PTSD may be diagnosed. Some people experience delayed-onset PTSD, where symptoms emerge long after the traumatic event, often triggered by life stressors or reminders.
Is it possible to fully recover from PTSD?
Yes, many people make full recoveries from PTSD with appropriate treatment. Evidence-based therapies like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT have high success rates, with many individuals experiencing significant symptom reduction or complete remission. Recovery doesn't mean forgetting the trauma, but rather processing it in a way that no longer controls daily life. Many people also experience post-traumatic growth, finding new strength and meaning.
Will talking about trauma in therapy make symptoms worse?
While processing trauma can temporarily increase distress, qualified trauma therapists use careful pacing and stabilisation techniques to ensure safety throughout treatment. Modern trauma therapies are designed to avoid re-traumatisation, helping you process memories gradually and at a manageable pace. Most people find that addressing trauma directly, with proper support, leads to significant improvement rather than worsening symptoms.
How therapy can help
Therapy for PTSD uses specialised trauma-focused approaches like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), and narrative exposure therapy to help process traumatic memories safely. These treatments help reduce the emotional charge of traumatic memories whilst developing healthy coping strategies and rebuilding a sense of safety and control. Therapists create supportive environments where individuals can gradually work through trauma at their own pace.
Modern trauma therapy recognises that healing involves both processing the past and building resilience for the future, helping individuals reclaim their sense of agency and develop post-traumatic growth. Many people find significant relief within months of beginning trauma-focused treatment.
Benefits of Therapy
Reduced flashbacks and nightmares
Decreased anxiety and hypervigilance
Improved sleep and concentration
Better emotional regulation
Increased sense of safety and control
Stronger relationships and social connection
Enhanced daily functioning and quality of life
Development of post-traumatic growth and resilience
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PTSD, trauma recovery, and effective treatment approaches
Can PTSD develop from any traumatic event?
PTSD can develop following various traumatic experiences including accidents, violence, natural disasters, medical emergencies, or witnessing traumatic events. The key factor isn't the type of trauma but how it affects the individual. Some people develop PTSD after events others might cope with differently, and this doesn't indicate weakness - trauma responses are normal reactions to abnormal situations requiring professional support.
How long after trauma does PTSD typically develop?
PTSD symptoms can appear immediately after trauma or may be delayed for months or even years. Acute stress reactions in the first month are normal, but when symptoms persist beyond a month and significantly impact functioning, PTSD may be diagnosed. Some people experience delayed-onset PTSD, where symptoms emerge long after the traumatic event, often triggered by life stressors or reminders.
Is it possible to fully recover from PTSD?
Yes, many people make full recoveries from PTSD with appropriate treatment. Evidence-based therapies like EMDR and trauma-focused CBT have high success rates, with many individuals experiencing significant symptom reduction or complete remission. Recovery doesn't mean forgetting the trauma, but rather processing it in a way that no longer controls daily life. Many people also experience post-traumatic growth, finding new strength and meaning.
Will talking about trauma in therapy make symptoms worse?
While processing trauma can temporarily increase distress, qualified trauma therapists use careful pacing and stabilisation techniques to ensure safety throughout treatment. Modern trauma therapies are designed to avoid re-traumatisation, helping you process memories gradually and at a manageable pace. Most people find that addressing trauma directly, with proper support, leads to significant improvement rather than worsening symptoms.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we’re proud to introduce Isabella May Leonard (MSc), an experienced person-centred psychotherapist offering therapy for adults. With over 2,500 clinical hours, Isabella brings warmth, compassion, and professional depth to her practice, with experience across private practice, NHS Talking Therapies, and third-sector services. She provides both short- and long-term therapy, creating a safe and reflective space where clients can explore challenges at their own pace.
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Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)