The most important thing to know about PTSD is that it responds well to treatment — many people recover fully or see a major reduction in symptoms. Here’s how PTSD treatment works in Australia and the evidence-based options available.
Trauma-focused therapy is the foundation
The strongest evidence for PTSD is for trauma-focused psychological therapies, which help you process the traumatic memory so it loses its grip:
- Trauma-focused CBT — including approaches like cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure.
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) — a well-established, evidence-based therapy specifically for trauma.
These are delivered by trained psychologists or other mental health professionals, usually over a course of sessions.
Medication
Medication can be a helpful part of treatment, particularly for symptoms like low mood, anxiety and poor sleep, or where therapy alone isn’t enough. Certain antidepressants have evidence in PTSD and are prescribed and monitored by a GP or psychiatrist. This is general information — your doctor will advise what’s right for you.
When to see a psychiatrist
Many people access therapy through a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan. Specialist psychiatric input is valuable when PTSD is severe or complex, when there’s complex PTSD, co-occurring depression or substance use, or when symptoms haven’t responded to initial treatment. A GP referral enables Medicare rebates for psychiatric consultations.
Our online psychiatry service provides telehealth assessment and treatment planning Australia-wide, so you can access care without long waits or travel.
Taking the first step
Reaching out is often the hardest part — and the most important. Start with our PTSD self-check, read about the signs of PTSD, or book an appointment with a referral.
This article is general information, not medical advice. In a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000.