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What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events.

PTSD is very common within the Armed Forces due to the high levels of stress and experiences that come with the job. In one major study of 60,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, 13.5% of deployed and non deployed veterans screened positive for PTSD, while other studies show the rate to be as high as 20% to 30%.

It is very important to know the signs and symptoms of PTSD in order to start the recovery journey as soon as possible.

Please take a look below and seek medical advice if any of the following look or sound very familiar.

  • Flashbacks 
  • Nightmares 
  • Physical sensations, such as pain, sweating, feeling sick or trembling
  • Trying to avoid being reminded of the traumatic event is another key symptom of PTSD. 
  • Avoiding certain people or places that remind you of the trauma, or avoiding talking to anyone about your experience. 
  • Many people with PTSD try to push memories of the event out of their mind, often distracting themselves with work or hobbies.
  • Some people attempt to deal with their feelings by trying not to feel anything at all. This is known as emotional numbing. 
  • Becoming isolated and withdrawn, and they may also give up pursuing activities they used to enjoy. 
  • Irritability 
  • Angry outbursts 
  • Sleeping problems 
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • other mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety or phobias
  • Self-harming or destructive behaviour, such as drug misuse or alcohol misuse
  • Other physical symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, chest pains and stomach aches

Click here for more advice on causes, symptoms and treatment from the NHS

If you think you or your loved one is suffering from PTSD please contact your medical centre based on the military campus. Alternatively, get in touch with a local GP. This may feel like an overwhelming task so we suggest that you talk it through with a loved one. Please contact us for support in making this first, very important step if you feel you need guidance or support.

Please note, we are NOT a crisis line.

See below for relevant contact details:

NHS Helpline Call 111

Samaritans Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair. Phone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline) Website: www.samaritans.org.uk

Men’s Health Forum 24/7 stress support for men by text, chat and email. Website: www.menshealthforum.org.uk

If you’re seriously concerned about your loved ones physical or mental health, or your safety, please dial 999.

Other useful resources:

Royal Marine Charity www.rma-trmc.org

Mind www.mind.org.uk

Helpguide www.helpguide.org