PTSD and trauma

What is PTSD and trauma?

PTSD and other trauma-related difficulties can follow events such as abuse, violence, accidents or loss. Not everyone who goes through a hard event has lasting difficulties, and reactions vary widely.

Common signs and symptoms

People describe flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, feeling constantly on guard, avoiding reminders, low mood, or difficulty coping with daily life. Having some of these experiences does not mean you have PTSD. A qualified provider can help you understand what you are experiencing.

How evaluation works

Care usually begins with a psychiatric evaluation of your history, current symptoms and goals. You do not have to explain everything at a first visit, and you can go at your own pace.

Treatment approaches

Depending on the person, care can include talk therapy, medication management, or both, along with support for sleep and stress. Providers may use a trauma-informed approach, which means paying attention to what feels safe for you. For adults whose symptoms haven’t eased enough with therapy and medication, TMS may be discussed as an adjunct treatment; it is offered at our West Palm Beach and Okeechobee clinics only.

Related Health Haven services

The services related to this condition are listed on this page. To choose a provider, find a provider; to see offices, visit Locations; for video visits, see Telehealth. Questions first? Use the contact page.

When to get urgent help

If you may be in immediate danger or having a medical emergency, call 911. If you are in a mental health crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988. Health Haven is not a crisis service. More support is listed on the Resources page.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to talk about what happened at my first visit?

No. You can share as much or as little as you are comfortable with.

Can trauma symptoms appear long after an event?

People's experiences differ. A provider can talk with you about your own timeline.

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and it does not replace a conversation with a provider.