Do I Have PTSD? Signs, Symptoms and Where to Find Support

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event, where the person relives the trauma through nightmares and flashbacks, causing recurrent distress and anxiety. It's estimated to affect around 1 in 3 people who go through a traumatic experience.



PTSD can begin immediately after the event — or emerge weeks, months or even years later. If that's you, please know: what you're experiencing is a recognised, treatable condition, not a weakness.

What are the signs of PTSD?

Alongside reliving the trauma through flashbacks and nightmares, PTSD can lead to:

• Feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt
• Avoiding situations, places or people that remind you of what happened
• Problems sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• 
  

Everyone's experience is different, and symptoms can ebb and flow. What they have in common is that they respond to treatment — people recover from PTSD every day.

When should I see a doctor about PTSD?

If your symptoms are having a negative effect on your day-to-day life and haven't improved four weeks after the trauma, contact your GP. They may refer you to mental health specialists for further assessment and appropriate treatment.

If you're having thoughts of suicide, don't wait — visit our I Need Help Now page.

PTSD support organisations in the UK

We've identified these organisations as particularly helpful if you think you may be experiencing PTSD:

• PTSD UK — excellent support, information and resources on all aspects of post-traumatic stress.
• PTSD Resolution — counselling for veterans, reservists and their families. Call 0300 302 0551.
• PTSD999 — dedicated to supporting emergency service workers, growing awareness of PTSD within the emergency services and breaking the stigma around it. See also our Emergency Services support page.
• Victim Support — support for victims of crime and traumatic incidents, with a free 24/7 supportline on 0808 168 9111.
• ASSIST Trauma Care — therapeutic help for individuals and families affected by traumatic occurrences.
• The Birth Trauma Association — support for women who have experienced birth trauma, including a Facebook community.
• Disaster Action — support for people affected by major disasters, both survivors and the bereaved.
• NAPAC — a charity supporting adult survivors of childhood abuse.
  

What if my trauma involved a suicide?

Witnessing or being closely affected by a suicide can be deeply traumatic, even when you didn't know the person. Our Witnessed a Suicide page signposts dedicated support for exactly this experience.

Recovery from PTSD is possible

With treatment, symptoms can ease — recovery is common, and it's never too late to seek help. Reaching out to your GP or one of the organisations above is the first step — and one that thousands of people take every year.

If you'd like to talk to The Jordan Legacy, email hello@thejordanlegacy.com.