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 psychotherapies: according to the Finnish Current Care guideline (updated 30 June 2026), first-line treatment includes trauma-focused CBT, other cognitive therapies, EMDR and narrative exposure therapy (NET) - Medication: a doctor may consider medication alongside or instead of psychotherapy
PTSD in Finland
In Finland, PTSD diagnosis and treatment occurs within the healthcare system. Only a professional can assess whether it is PTSD. Kela rehabilitative psychotherapy is possible if the disorder threatens your ability to work or study, has been treated for at least 3 months, and a psychiatrist has written a B-statement.
If you are in immediate danger or have thoughts of suicide, call 112. For crisis support, call the MIELI Crisis Helpline on 09 2525 0111 (in Finnish, 24/7). More help: crisis help.