No, receiving this kind of feedback does NOT mean you necessarily have PTSD. It simply indicates that some of your symptoms may be consistent with trauma-related difficulties. Most people experience these kinds of experiences immediately after a traumatic event. A comprehensive assessment by a qualified mental health professional is the best way to determine whether you meet the criteria for PTSD.

Absolutely. Even if you don’t have PTSD, persistent low mood, anxiety, or obsessive thoughts are good reasons to seek help. A professional evaluation can help you understand what you’re going through and find effective, evidence-based recommended treatments tailored to your needs.

Many people feel that dealing with the traumatic experience is difficult or overwhelming – that's an understandable feeling. However, research shows that most effective PTSD treatments involve processing and re-evaluating the trauma narrative. Working with a trained therapist can help you navigate this at a pace that feels safe and right for you. That said, there are some alternative approaches that have less of an evidence base, that may be suitable in some cases.

Absolutely. The HMOs and hospitals offer a range of trauma-focused treatments that have been researched and shown to be effective. The Trauma Recovery Center also works to train clinicians in the public system in these approaches.
We encourage you to explore the different treatment methods on the next page.

When considering starting treatment, there are a few things worth asking in your conversation with a potential therapist:

• Are you trained in trauma-focused therapy? If so, which ones?
• Do you conduct diagnostic assessments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?
• Do you track progress using validated measurements?

At the beginning of therapy, discuss your hopes for treatment. Work together with your therapist to set clear, collaborative goals.

Taking these steps can help you find the right support for your healing journey.

Medication can be helpful for some individuals, especially when combined with therapy. A psychiatrist can assess whether medication is appropriate for your specific situation and how it might support your overall recovery.

There are evidence-based self-help strategies, such as gradual self-exposure exercises, writing about the trauma, cognitive processing, as well as additional tools like mindfulness, physical activity, and journaling. These tools can be supportive but may not fully address your needs. Professional treatment provides tailored guidance that can help you manage your symptoms more effectively. 

If a loved one is struggling with trauma, start by offering a supportive, non-judgmental space for them to talk. Encourage them to explore this website together to see if they find it helpful.