Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing something deeply distressing or traumatic. PTSD can affect military veterans or someone who has been part of or witness to a traumatic event, for example an accident, assault, natural disaster, a traumatic death or a difficult birth.
You might notice symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, feeling on edge or struggling with sleep. You may also find yourself trying to avoid thinking about the incident. These reactions are common and some people find they develop immediately, whereas for others they can occur weeks, months or even years after the event.
If you are struggling, you are not alone and TALKWORKS can help. The NHS recognises that PTSD is estimated to affect about 1 in every 3 people who have had a traumatic experience, so please reach out if you are struggling.
How TALKWORKS can help with PTSD?
TALKWORKS can offer a range of treatment options to help with PTSD which will be discussed at your first appointment with one of our therapists. These include:
• Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy
• Prolonged grief disorder therapy (PGDT) can be considered if the trauma relates to a traumatic loss
Your treatment will be delivered in the form of one-to-one therapy sessions with an NHS clinician. These sessions are available face-to-face in one our locations across Devon. If you’d prefer to receive treatment from the comfort of your own home, we can deliver therapy remotely, by video call.
We can also offer internet cognitive therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (iCT-PTSD) which is a form of trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy where you have access to an online platform (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) as well as weekly therapy sessions with a TALKWORKS clinician. More information about iCT-PTSD can be found on our website.
You don't have to face PTSD alone. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can help you feel more in control.
How to access our service
If you are struggling, TALKWORKS is here to help. Here's how you can self-refer to our free, NHS service:
- Complete our online self-referral form
- Call 0300 555 3344
- Email dpt.talkworks@nhs.net
- Speak to your GP
You must be over the age of 18 and living in Devon (excluding Plymouth) to access TALKWORKS. If you are living in Plymouth and would like to access support, please contact Plymouth Options .