Britain has 700,000 PTSD sufferers. Less than half of them are being treated according to Dr Jennifer Wild of the Institute of Psychiatry at King's College London

PTSD is a severe stress reaction and many sufferers do not know they have it or they are too ashamed to seek medical help. PTSD is a reaction to a traumatic event or series of events.  It is triggered by a person’s fear that they are going to be seriously harmed or killed.  There is specific treatment available. At best, the treatment can help people and thier families move on and cope with life again. At worst, sufferers can learn how to lessen the effects and how to deal with it.

Dr Wild believes that many people who have this disorder don’t realise they have it and they put their symptoms down to others things. In addition even when they see their GP the GPs do not always understand the condition so they don’t look for the signs. GPs might prescribe anti depressants or sleeping tablets instead – missing the diagnosis and failing to find the appropriate treatment for their patients.    

PTSD can be caused at work for example where violence takes place - the emergency services, armed forces, prison officers, bank, building society and post office staff, bookmakers, night club or pub staff; or where there has been a traumatic industrial accident; for example where a worker has been injured by machinery; or where a disaster occurs such as the “Herald of free enterprise” or the “Woolworths” fire. PTSD can be caused from events which occur in everyday life such as a car accident, or it can be caused by a specific event such as a sexual assault. It can also be the result of abuse or neglect.     

If you believe you might have PSTD and you have not sought help from your GP go and see them. You should also ring us for help and advice on how to claim damages for your injuries. If you have already been to see your GP but you have not had any meaningful help from him/her ring us for guidance.

Ring us now for help on 0161 615 5554 or fill in the call back request form on this web page. Don't delay.