Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop following exposure to traumatic or highly distressing events.

At THE BALANCE, PTSD is understood not only as a psychological diagnosis, but as a condition involving the nervous system, body, emotional regulation, and relational experience. Care is approached with depth, caution, and respect for individual readiness.

UNDERSTANDING PTSD

PTSD may arise after experiences such as:

• accidents or injuries
• violence or abuse
• medical or surgical trauma
• sudden loss or life-threatening events
• prolonged exposure to high stress or danger

Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD. Individual vulnerability, prior experiences, and support systems all influence how trauma is processed.

HOW PTSD MAY PRESENT

PTSD can affect individuals in different ways and may include:

• intrusive memories or flashbacks
• heightened alertness or reactivity
• avoidance of reminders
• emotional numbness or detachment
• sleep disturbance or nightmares
• difficulty regulating emotions
• changes in mood, behavior, or relationships

Symptoms may fluctuate over time and can be triggered by stress, change, or perceived threat.

PTSD IN COMPLEX PRESENTATIONS

At THE BALANCE, PTSD is often seen alongside other difficulties, such as:

• anxiety or depression
• burnout or chronic stress
• substance use or behavioral coping strategies
• relational or attachment difficulties
• physical or psychosomatic symptoms

PTSD rarely exists in isolation and is approached within the broader context of the individual’s life and history.

A TRAUMA-INFORMED APPROACH TO CARE

PTSD is treated with care and caution. Treatment does not begin with forced exposure or immediate memory processing. Initial focus is placed on:

• safety and stabilisation
• nervous system regulation
• emotional containment
• strengthening internal and external resources

Processing of traumatic experiences occurs only when sufficient stability and readiness are present.

HOW PTSD IS APPROACHED AT THE BALANCE

Care for PTSD at THE BALANCE is:

• individualized and assessment-led
• integrated across disciplines
• paced according to tolerance and readiness
• guided by trauma-informed principles

Treatment may draw from psychotherapy, psychiatric care, neurobiological support, somatic approaches, and environmental stabilisation – always as part of a coherent plan.

THE ROLE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

PTSD involves persistent dysregulation of the nervous system. This may include:

• difficulty returning to a calm state
• heightened threat perception
• reduced capacity for rest or connection

Supporting nervous system regulation is a core component of care and enhances the effectiveness of psychological work.

RESIDENTIAL & OUTPATIENT CONTEXTS

Depending on severity and complexity, PTSD care may be provided within:

• Individualized Residential Care
• Small-Group Residential Care
• Outpatient & Continuity of Care

The level of care is guided by assessment, safety considerations, and individual needs.

IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUITABILITY

Not all individuals with PTSD require residential treatment. Where outpatient support or alternative approaches are more appropriate, this is discussed openly during the admission process. Care recommendations are made responsibly and ethically.

LIVING WITH PTSD – AND RECOVERY

Recovery from PTSD is not linear and cannot be rushed. With appropriate support, many individuals develop:

• improved regulation and resilience
• reduced symptom intensity
• greater emotional capacity
• renewed sense of safety and agency

Progress is measured over time, not against fixed timelines.

NEXT STEPS

If you would like to explore whether care at THE BALANCE may be appropriate, our admissions team can provide confidential guidance and help determine the most suitable next steps.