Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as trauma disorder, flashbacks.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a deeply distressing event — an accident, violent attack, kidnapping, conflict or disaster. The mind keeps reliving the danger through flashbacks and nightmares, staying on permanent alert. It is a recognised, treatable condition, not weakness.
Symptoms
Flashbacks — reliving the event as if it is happening again
Nightmares and disturbed sleep
Avoiding places, people or talk that recall the event
Being constantly on edge or easily startled
Irritability or angry outbursts
Emotional numbness or detachment
Guilt or self-blame about the event
Causes & risk factors
Experiencing or witnessing life-threatening events
Accidents, armed robbery, kidnapping, conflict or disaster
Sexual or physical assault
Repeated exposure to trauma (first responders, health workers)
Treatment & self-care
Trauma-focused talking therapies with a trained psychologist help the brain process the memory so it loses its grip; doctors may add medication for sleep, anxiety or depression alongside. Support from trusted people and gradual return to routine aid recovery. Symptoms lasting beyond a month after the event deserve professional help.
See a doctor urgently if
Symptoms persisting more than a month after the event
Flashbacks or nightmares disrupting daily life
Using alcohol or drugs to numb memories
Thoughts of self-harm
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Early signs often include flashbacks — reliving the event as if it is happening again, nightmares and disturbed sleep, avoiding places, people or talk that recall the event. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) be treated?
Trauma-focused talking therapies with a trained psychologist help the brain process the memory so it loses its grip; doctors may add medication for sleep, anxiety or depression alongside. Support from trusted people and gradual return to routine aid recovery. Symptoms lasting beyond a month after the event deserve professional help.
When should I see a doctor about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: symptoms persisting more than a month after the event; flashbacks or nightmares disrupting daily life; using alcohol or drugs to numb memories; thoughts of self-harm.
Talk to the right specialist
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is usually handled by psychology. See an online psychology doctor in minutes on GoDoctor.