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    mental-health

    Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (adjunctive support)

    Also known as: PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma, flashbacks, nightmares

    PTSD follows trauma and causes flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance and avoidance. Trauma-focused psychological therapy (EMDR, trauma-focused CBT) is the proven treatment. Chinese medicine offers gentle adjunctive support for sleep, hyperarousal and physical tension — never as a replacement for trauma therapy.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, trauma-focused CBT) is the proven treatment — the GP can arrange a mental health care plan.
    • •Grounding techniques help during flashbacks: name 5 things you see, 4 you hear, 3 you can touch.
    • •Avoid alcohol and cannabis as coping tools — they worsen sleep and symptoms over time.
    • •Regular exercise, routine and safe social connection all support recovery.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •Never position Chinese medicine as a treatment for trauma itself — psychological therapy is essential.[,]
    • •Acupuncture can occasionally trigger strong emotional release; go gently and debrief.[]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Review every 2–4 weeks. Track sleep, nightmares, startle response and alcohol use. Confirm trauma-focused therapy is in place; screen for suicidal ideation at each visit.

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    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. PTSD — Healthdirect
      Healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. PTSD (NG116) — NICE
      NICE · 2018
    3. Lifeline — 24-hour crisis support
      Lifeline Australia · 2024
    4. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.