Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
A long-term disorder developing after a traumatic event, involving flashbacks, avoidance behavior, and hyperarousal.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a shocking event. It differs from a normal stress reaction in that symptoms persist for weeks, months, or years after the event.
PTSD symptoms
The four main symptom clusters of PTSD are:
- Re-experiencing: Flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive memories
- Avoidance: Avoiding places, people, or situations related to the trauma
- Negative changes in thinking: Guilt, shame, emotional numbness
- Hyperarousal: Startle response, sleep difficulties, irritability, concentration problems
When to seek help
Seek professional help if: - Symptoms don't ease within 4 weeks of the event - Symptoms interfere with daily life, work, or relationships - You use substances to cope - You have suicidal thoughts
Treatment methods
PTSD is effectively treated with several methods: - Trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT): Most researched treatment - EMDR therapy: Particularly for processing single traumas - Psychodynamic trauma therapy: For processing longer-term trauma - Medication: SSRIs can relieve symptoms alongside therapy
PTSD in Finland
In Finland, PTSD diagnosis and treatment occurs within the healthcare system. Kela-supported rehabilitation psychotherapy is possible once PTSD is diagnosed and a B-statement is written.