Effective PTSD Treatment - Australia
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops following a traumatic event or events. It is characterised by intrusive thoughts about the incident, recurring distress and anxiety, flashbacks and avoidance of similar situations.
These symptoms often lead to depression and other mental health problems. PTSD affects around 3 million Australians at some time in their lives. The good news is that PTSD is a treatable disorder. Monarch Mental Health Group offers a range of PTSD treatment pathways in Australia that have been proven effective in combating the disorder.
As a psychiatrist-led Australian mental health care provider focusing on early access to innovative next-step services for people experiencing mental health conditions, including PTSD, we provide accessible treatment options at various locations around Australia.
What Causes PTSD?
PTSD can occur when fear, anxiety and traumatic memories of an event don't fade. These feelings and emotions persist, interfering with your ability to cope with everyday life. PTSD is very common, affecting more than 500,000 people per year in Australia. First responders such as police, fire and ambulance officers, along with veterans of the armed forces, are particularly at risk. PTSD is also more common in females.
PTSD can affect anyone, particularly when exposed to situations like:
- Military combat
- Accidents Abuse or assault
- Natural disasters
PTSD can develop immediately or over time, impacting your well-being and social interactions. It is a complex condition, with symptoms that include:
- Restlessness
- Being on edge
- Difficulties sleeping
- Flashbacks Irritability and/or anger
- Depression, anxiety and/or stress
- Headaches, stomachache, chest pain
- Emotional numbing
- Abuse of alcohol and/or drugs
PTSD and TMS
Patients with PTSD frequently experience a combination of depressive symptoms, anxiety and the specific symptoms of PTSD described above. For these patients, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
There is also emerging evidence that TMS may reduce some of the troublesome symptoms of PTSD itself. At Monarch Mental Health Group, we have designed a protocol to target all these symptoms within one treatment session, with stimulation applied to both the left and right sides of the brain.
Treatment for PTSD
Getting effective treatment as soon as PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reducing symptoms and improving function. Several PTSD treatments are available across Australia and the best course of action for each person will depend on their individual circumstances.
Alongside established PTSD treatments, there are also emerging therapies that may be suitable for treating post-traumatic stress disorder and related symptoms. Recommended treatments for PTSD in adults include:
- Psychological treatments, particularly those designed specifically for treating PTSD.
- Medication treatments, both to help with symptoms of PTSD and co-occurring conditions such as depression.
Next-Step PTSD Treatments
Just as each person's experience of trauma is different, so too is each person's response to treatment. For those who continue to experience symptoms despite first- and second-line treatments, several emerging next-step therapies should be considered. These therapies are being investigated for their benefits and potential to improve PTSD symptoms.
Neurostimulation is one of the emerging therapies being considered for PTSD treatment both in Australia and internationally. Currently, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is used to treat common comorbidities associated with PTSD, such as depression.
rTMS involves placing a specially designed coil on the patient’s head to generate a magnetic field that stimulates the brain's nerve cells. rTMS targets different areas of the brain to achieve the desired results. For example, when treating depression, rTMS targets the prefrontal cortex to stimulate the emotional centre of the brain.
For information about emerging next-step PTSD treatments, speak to your health professional about whether a referral to The Monarch Clinic Australia is an appropriate next step.
Our Difference
Psychiatrist-led mental health service
Fast access to all services
Evidence-based, individualized treatment programs
*Please note - only Monarch Group initial assessments are bulk billed. Accessing clinicians through our consulting suites will incur out-of-pocket costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. A mental health professional can provide psychological therapies and support to help individuals manage and overcome PTSD symptoms.
Psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), are effective treatments for PTSD. These therapies help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce trauma reactions.
Acute stress disorder (ASD) occurs in the initial month following a traumatic event and includes symptoms similar to PTSD. If these symptoms persist beyond a month, the individual may develop PTSD.
Yes, PTSD can lead to other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Early intervention by a mental health professional can help prevent these complications.
If you are in immediate danger, call emergency services right away. For crisis support, contact local helplines or mental health services. It's important to get help immediately if you're feeling unsafe or overwhelmed.
Complex PTSD is a more severe form of PTSD that usually results from prolonged or repeated trauma, such as long-term abuse. It includes additional symptoms like difficulties with emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships.
Australian guidelines recommend evidence-based treatments for PTSD, including psychological therapies and medication. These guidelines emphasise early intervention and access to specialised care for those affected by PTSD.
Yes, experiencing traumatic events can impact physical health, leading to issues such as headaches, stomach problems and chronic pain. Treating PTSD can improve both mental and physical health.
EMDR is a psychological therapy used to treat PTSD. It involves guided eye movements to help process and reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Anyone exposed to a potentially traumatic event, such as military combat, accidents, or natural disasters, is at risk of developing PTSD. Some individuals, like first responders, are at higher risk due to the nature of their work.
Supporting someone with PTSD involves being patient, listening without judgement and encouraging them to seek professional help. Crisis support services can also guide how to assist someone in immediate danger.
