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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by intrusive memories, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal.
Quick Answer
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by intrusive memories, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal. Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766, Experienced clinical practice in psychiatry and mental health) evaluates post-traumatic stress disorder at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, Durbar Marg, Opposite of Yak & Yeti Hotel, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal — evidence-based, medically reviewed.
PTSD occurs in a subset of individuals following trauma exposure, with risk mediated by genetic vulnerability, trauma severity, and lack of social support. It involves dysregulation of the fear-processing network (amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus) and stress-response systems. PTSD is associated with significant functional impairment and comorbidity with depression, substance use, and other anxiety disorders. Trauma-focused psychotherapies are first-line treatment.
Diagnosis is clinical, based on DSM-5 or ICD-11 criteria: exposure to a traumatic event followed by intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition/mood, and hyperarousal symptoms lasting more than one month. The CAPS-5 (Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale) is the gold-standard structured interview. PCL-5 is a validated self-report measure. Screening for comorbid depression, substance use, and suicidality is essential.
First-line treatments are trauma-focused psychotherapies: prolonged exposure (PE) therapy and cognitive processing therapy (CPT). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is another evidence-based option. SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine) are FDA-approved pharmacotherapy. For treatment-resistant PTSD, prazosin may help with nightmares. Adjunctive treatments for comorbid conditions (depression, insomnia, substance use) are important.
Management is individualized and discussed with benefits, limitations, and follow-up.
Early psychological first aid following trauma exposure, establishing safety, and connecting survivors with social support may reduce risk. Critical incident stress debriefing is not recommended as a universal preventive measure. Screening high-risk populations (first responders, military personnel) enables early identification.
Symptoms typically begin within three months of the trauma, though onset can be delayed. Symptoms must persist for more than one month to meet diagnostic criteria.
Some individuals recover naturally, particularly with strong social support. However, without treatment, PTSD often becomes chronic, and early intervention improves outcomes.
Prolonged exposure (PE) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT) have the strongest evidence base. EMDR is also well-supported. Medication (SSRIs) can be helpful, especially with comorbid depression.
Yes � Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029) provides PTSD assessment and treatment at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center.
Yes. PTSD can develop after childhood abuse, neglect, or other adverse experiences. Symptoms may present differently in children and adolescents, including reenactment in play and behavioral changes.
There is a high rate of comorbidity. Individuals with PTSD may use substances to self-medicate emotional pain. Treatment of both conditions simultaneously produces better outcomes.
Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation for mood, anxiety, psychosis, and other mental health concerns, including medication assessment and long-term care planning.
Structured, evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, depression, insomnia, and related conditions.
Evaluation and management of generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and phobias.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) involves persistent, excessive worry about everyday matters that is difficult to control and may cause physical symptoms.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and a range of emotional and physical symptoms that impair daily functioning.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic condition involving compulsive use of a substance despite harmful consequences, characterized by loss of control over use and continued use despite adverse effects.
Trauma
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Understanding Trauma and Recovery
An overview of PTSD — its diagnostic criteria, common symptoms, how trauma affects the brain and body, and evidence-based treatments that support recovery.
Mental Health
Understanding Grief Stages: Beyond Kubler-Ross to Modern, Culturally Sensitive Models — Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766)
Grief is not a linear five-step ladder. Learn what Kubler-Ross described, why stages are often misunderstood, and what Dual Process Model and meaning-reconstruction frameworks offer — explained by Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766) in Kathmandu.
Content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is established by use of this site or by contacting the clinic through the site.
Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.
Doctor — medically reviewed
Dr. Ruja Shrestha
Consultant Psychiatrist & CBT Therapist • MBBS, MD (Psychiatry) • NMC 19766
This condition guide was medically reviewed by Dr. Ruja Shrestha.
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