PTSD: Pathways Through the Secret Door: Understanding PTSD

Have you, or someone you
know:

Been through combat?
Lived through a disaster?
Experienced any other kind of traumatic event?

Understanding PTSD (PDF)
Includes full color photos, real stories, and more.

What is PTSD? This interactive module will help you learn about common reactions to trauma, hear real stories of those who have dealt with PTSD, and how to get help.

Help with Flash

Other Information on PTSD

After a trauma or life-threatening event, it is common to have reactions such as upsetting memories of the event, increased jumpiness, or trouble sleeping. If these reactions do not go away or if they get worse, you may have Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

What is PTSD?
Find out about the symptoms of PTSD and how they develop.
Frequently Asked Questions About PTSD
Basic information about PTSD and its treatment. Includes links to resources for getting help.
Helping a Family Member Who Has PTSD
Ways you can help a loved one with PTSD and ways you can help yourself.
How Common is PTSD?
Find out how many people have PTSD and who is most likely to develop PTSD.
Treatment of PTSD
Describes the treatments shown to be effective for PTSD and what you can expect from your therapist.
Understanding PTS(D): Adapt and Overcome
Read this interview of Dr. Matthew Friedman, Executive Director of NCPTSD, to understand more about returning from war.
Understanding PTSD Treatment
View this interactive module about PTSD treatment options. A companion to Understanding PTSD, it has full color photos and videos of clinicians who provide care. It can help overcome any myths you might have about PTSD treatment.
What Can I Do if I Think I Have PTSD?
Learn what you can do if you think you have PTSD.