Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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PTSD can feel like being pulled back into a difficult moment, even when you’re safe in the present. You might find yourself avoiding places, people, or things that remind you of what happened, or feeling constantly on edge, as if you need to be ready for something. It’s a heavy load to carry alone, but there are ways to ease that burden, and support is here when you’re ready.
I work with quite a few people affected by trauma and PTSD, so if you’re struggling with symptoms of PTSD, feel free to book an appointment with me.
PTSD Symptoms
It’s normal to feel unsettled after a traumatic event, but if these feelings persist for months or years, you may be experiencing PTSD. Symptoms can vary, but may include:
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
- Feeling tense or "on guard"
- Emotional numbness
- Difficulty with relationships
It is also important to know that PTSD can led to experiences like hallucinations and panic attacks.
Getting Help with PTSD
Addressing PTSD can be challenging, and the approach you take might depend on the trauma involved and your personal goals for healing. Talking with someone – whether a friend, GP, or psychologist – can help clarify which types of support will be most helpful. You might want to resolve the trauma’s impact directly or focus on managing symptoms to improve day-to-day life.
Getting Financial Assistance for the Treatment of PTSD
This section may not be relevant to a lot of people but I do think that it is important to include.
Given the financial burden of seeing any mental health professional (and the criteria for The Psychological Trauma Recovery Service (PTRS) – see below) and it is important to know about Victims of Crime Funding in Victoria. On 18 November 2024, the new Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) will commence and if you have PTSD symptoms as a result of crime you may be eligible for support.
Some people may not realise that if they previously made a report that they might be eligible for funding or that they might still be able to make a report now for events that have happened some time ago. Many other people may not realise that the events they went through that triggered their PTSD symptoms involved crimes. However, it is often possible to report crimes years after they have occurred.
I realise that making a report to the police can be a major undertaking. Making a report can be a highly distressing process, you may feel at risk from the perpetrator if you do make a report, it could also have implications for current relationships in your life, or prompt negative behaviour from others. So deciding on whether or not to make a report is a very personal decision, and I don’t think there is a simple right or wrong answer on whether to make a report, only what is right for you.
Having said this, if you have been the victim of a crime you can still report it to police now and you may be eligible for funding for counselling and other services. Please carefully read the eligibility criteria for support here on the Victims of Crime website.
If you would like more information about Victims of Crime they have a helpline that you can access Here.
If you are thinking about making a report I strongly encourage you to give it a lot of thought and if possible, discuss it with some trusted people. Tragically, making a report and the events following a report are not always positive experiences. Other times making a report and the recognising the events for what they were can be an important part of healing.
Services and Resources for PTSD
Typically the primary treatment for PTSD is psychological therapy and most psychological therapies for PTSD have good track records. I do work with a lot of people who have PTSD or trauma related symptoms so if you would like some help don’t hesitate to reach out. In the next section I have set out some of the services and resources available in Melbourne.
Seeing a General Practitioner (GP)
Seeing a General Practitioner (GP)
If you think that you might be suffering from PTSD the first step is often to see a GP. They can complete a Mental Health Treatment Plan with you and may refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist, and in some cases, prescribe medication.00
Seeing a Psychologist
The next step is usually to see a psychologist. There are different options tor treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other trauma-informed interventions. I use a trauma informed approach that draws on multiple therapies.
Seeing a Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists can prescribe medication to help manage PTSD symptoms if needed. They can also refer you to specialized treatment programs.
Specialist Services Government Service
The Psychological Trauma Recovery Service (PTRS): The Psychological Trauma Recovery Service (PTRS) is a government run specialised, state wide service for people with trauma-related mental health conditions. It is located at the Austin Hospital in Ivanhoe, Melbourne.
The eligibility criteria to be accepted by the PTRS is a little confusing but I hope I can explain it here. Basically, the event that you experienced needs to be something that is covered by a funding body. That is, if you have a traffic accident you are covered by TAC, if something happens at work you are covered by WorkSafe Victoria, if you are the victim of crime you are covered by the Victims of Crime program, and if you work for emergency services or the military you are also covered. If you are interested in engaging with the PTRS please contact them and confirm, but as far as I know they will not see people if your funding source is a Mental Health Care Plan.
Programs at Private Hospitals
If you have private health insurance, you may be able to access PTSD programs at private hospitals.
The Melbourne Clinic: Provides inpatient and outpatient programs for trauma recovery.
Ramsay Clinic Albert Road: Specializes in trauma-focused inpatient and day programs.
Public Mental Health Services
For severe cases, a GP can refer you to public mental health services for intensive support.
Self-Help and Community-Based Treatments for PTSD
Free Telephone, Online Chat, and Counselling Services
Beyond Blue Support Service
Beyond Blue offers free, 24/7 counselling for people experiencing depression, anxiety, or mental health challenges. Their counsellors can provide advice, emotional support, and practical strategies to manage low mood.
MensLine Australia
MensLine is a 24/7 service offering free counselling for men who are experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties, including low mood and depression. They provide professional support and practical advice.
Kids Helpline (for young adults up to 25)
Kids Helpline provides 24/7 free counselling for young people up to 25 years old. Their qualified counsellors offer support for managing low mood, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Online Support Groups / In-Person Support Groups
Offers online forums and resources for people struggling with low mood and depression, and also covers PTSD.
MHFA runs in-person support groups in various locations across Melbourne. These groups focus on mental health education, peer support, and the shared experience of managing low mood and depression.
Grow offers peer-led support groups that focus on recovery from mental health issues, including low mood and depression. Their programs provide a supportive community, emphasizing personal responsibility and mutual support.
Books
There are a lot of books out there on PTSD, two of the most well-known are:
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
- Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman
Lifestyle Changes
- Exercise: Activities like walking, yoga, or swimming can ease anxiety and lift mood.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Meditation and breathing exercises can ground you in the present.
- Sleep and Nutrition: Adequate sleep and balanced nutrition help support mental health. Reducing caffeine and maintaining a sleep routine can also make a difference.
I hope this information provides a helpful starting point for support. If you’re managing PTSD, I am here if you’d like to reach out.
