Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. During Stress Awareness Month, it is particularly important to highlight how trauma affects the mind and body, and how evidence-based assessment and treatment can support recovery.
At Bloomfield Health, we recognise that PTSD is often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and highly individual in its presentation. This article provides a clear, clinically grounded overview of how PTSD is assessed and treated, in line with NICE guidelines (NG116) and Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) guidance.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD may develop following exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence—either directly, as a witness, or through repeated exposure (e.g. in frontline professions).
Core Symptoms
According to ICD-11 and DSM-5 frameworks, PTSD typically involves:
Symptoms persist for more than one month and cause significant impairment in daily functioning.
PTSD vs Acute Stress Reaction
It is important to distinguish PTSD from Acute Stress Reaction (ASR):
Early identification of those at risk of PTSD is a key component of preventative care.
How Is PTSD Assessed?
A comprehensive psychiatric assessment is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
At Bloomfield Health, assessments are conducted by experienced psychiatrists and include:
Clinicians may use validated instruments such as:
These tools support diagnostic clarity but do not replace clinical judgement.
PTSD frequently co-occurs with:
A holistic assessment ensures these are identified and addressed.
For occupational health or legal cases, assessment may also include:
Bloomfield Health provides independent psychiatric reports tailored to legal and occupational contexts.
Evidence-Based Treatment of PTSD
NICE guidelines recommend trauma-focused psychological therapies as first-line treatment.
This structured therapy helps patients:
TF-CBT is one of the most effective treatments for PTSD.
EMDR uses guided eye movements to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories.
Medication is not first-line but may be appropriate in certain cases.
Common options include:
Medication may be helpful when:
Before trauma-focused therapy, some individuals benefit from:
This is particularly important in complex PTSD or where there is ongoing instability.
Complex PTSD: A Broader Clinical Picture
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) arises from prolonged or repeated trauma (e.g. childhood abuse, domestic violence).
In addition to core PTSD symptoms, it may include:
Treatment often requires a phased approach, combining stabilisation, trauma processing, and integration.
Barriers to Seeking Help
Many individuals with PTSD delay seeking support due to:
During Stress Awareness Month, raising awareness can help reduce these barriers and encourage early intervention.
Bloomfield Health’s Approach
At Bloomfield Health, we provide:
We understand that trauma affects each person differently, and we tailor care accordingly.
When to Seek Help
You may benefit from a professional assessment if you are experiencing:
Early assessment can significantly improve outcomes.
Final Thoughts
PTSD is a serious but treatable condition. With the right support, many individuals experience meaningful recovery and improved quality of life.
Stress Awareness Month is an opportunity not only to recognise everyday stress, but also to understand the deeper impact of trauma—and the importance of timely, evidence-based care.
Call to Action
If you or someone you support may be experiencing symptoms of PTSD:
References
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
