Ravi had always been calm and dependable. A loving father, a careful driver, and someone his colleagues trusted. One evening, on his way home, a speeding car hit his. He survived with minor physical injuries. The doctors said he was “lucky.”
But something had changed.
At night, Ravi would wake up sweating, hearing crashing metal in his mind. He avoided driving that road. Loud noises made him jump. He felt irritable with his children. He stopped meeting friends. His family thought he should “just forget it” because he was physically fine.
Ravi wasn’t weak. He wasn’t dramatic. He was experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
And he is not alone.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a deeply frightening or distressing event.
This could include –
It is important to understand that PTSD is not a sign of weakness. It is the brain’s survival system staying “on alert” even after the danger has passed.
After trauma, the body’s alarm system (fight-or-flight response) can get stuck in the “ON” position. When that happens, a person may relive the trauma, avoid reminders, or feel constantly tense.
When we face danger, the brain releases stress hormones. This helps us react quickly. In most cases, once the danger passes, the body calms down.
But in PTSD, the brain continues to behave as if the threat is still present.
Certain factors may increase risk:
However, PTSD can affect anyone — strong, successful, educated, resilient individuals.
For a diagnosis, symptoms usually last more than one month and interfere with daily life. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, symptoms fall into four main groups.
Let’s understand them in simple language.
The memory feels fresh and intense.
For some people, even a smell, sound, or location can trigger memories.
The person tries hard not to think about it.
Avoidance may seem helpful at first, but over time it restricts life.
Trauma can change how a person sees the world.
Some people say, “I am not the same person anymore.”
The nervous system remains overactive.
This can lead to exhaustion and relationship problems.
Children may not describe their feelings clearly. Instead, you may notice:
Early intervention can prevent long-term emotional difficulties.
Misinformation prevents many people from seeking help. Let us correct some common myths.
MYTH 1: “ONLY SOLDIERS GET PTSD.”
Fact: Anyone can develop PTSD — accident survivors, abuse victims, healthcare workers, disaster survivors, or even witnesses of trauma.
MYTH 2: “YOU SHOULD JUST MOVE ON.”
Fact: Trauma affects the brain. Recovery is not about willpower. Professional support can help the brain heal.
MYTH 3: “TALKING ABOUT TRAUMA MAKES IT WORSE.”
Fact: Talking in a safe, structured therapy setting actually reduces symptoms over time.
MYTH 4: “IF SYMPTOMS APPEAR MONTHS LATER, IT’S NOT PTSD.”
Fact: PTSD symptoms can appear weeks, months, or even years after the trauma.
MYTH 5: “MEDICATION MEANS YOU ARE WEAK.”
Fact: Medication can help regulate brain chemistry. It is no different from treating diabetes or hypertension.
MYTH 6: “CHILDREN FORGET TRAUMA EASILY.”
Fact: Children are deeply affected by trauma, even if they cannot express it.
Recovery is possible. Treatment is effective and evidence-based.
1: PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPY
Therapy helps the brain process the trauma safely.
Common approaches include:
Therapy gradually reduces fear and helps people regain control.
2: MEDICATION
Certain medications can help reduce:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used. Medication is often combined with therapy for best results.
Professional care matters, but supportive habits can support recovery.
Small steps make a difference.
Not always. But early support reduces risk.
After trauma:
Community support plays a powerful role in healing.
Consider consulting a mental health professional if:
Early treatment improves recovery outcomes significantly.
Seeking Professional Help
If you have concerns about your mental health or that of someone you care about, seeking professional guidance can be an important first step. A professional assessment can help clarify the nature of the difficulties and identify appropriate treatment or support.
To enquire about an appointment at Al Soor Specialist Clinic LLC, Sharjah, or to learn more about our services, please contact us at +971 6 551 2913.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information and education only. It is not a substitute for professional assessment, diagnosis, or individualized treatment advice.
