Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Understanding and Healing After Trauma
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Whether the trauma is a serious accident, violence, natural disaster, or loss, PTSD can affect anyone.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with persistent distress after trauma, it is important to know that help is available and recovery is possible.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder causes intense, long-lasting emotional and physical reactions to reminders of the traumatic event. Unlike normal stress responses, PTSD symptoms persist for months or even years and can interfere significantly with daily life.
Common Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms often fall into four main categories:
– Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares.
– Avoidance: Avoiding people, places, or activities that trigger reminders of the trauma.
– Negative Thoughts and Mood: Feelings of guilt, shame, numbness, or hopelessness.
– Changes in Arousal: Being easily startled, feeling constantly tense, or experiencing angry outbursts.
Symptoms may appear soon after the event or be delayed for months.
Causes and Risk Factors
While anyone exposed to severe trauma can develop PTSD, certain factors increase the risk, including:
– Experiencing prolonged or repeated trauma
– A personal or family history of mental health issues
– Lack of social support after the event
– High levels of stress in daily life
Understanding these risk factors can help individuals and families seek support sooner.

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
The good news is that PTSD is treatable. Effective care often combines therapy, medication, and self-care strategies.
Psychotherapy
Evidence-based therapies are the cornerstone of PTSD treatment. These may include:
– Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps reframe unhelpful thoughts and reduce avoidance behaviours.
– Trauma-Focused CBT: Specialised approaches for processing traumatic memories safely.
– Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): A structured therapy to help reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories.
Medication
Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may help manage symptoms like insomnia, low mood, or irritability.
Support and Self-Care
Building a supportive network and learning relaxation techniques can help manage symptoms and promote recovery.
At Maudsley Health in Abu Dhabi, our multidisciplinary team tailors treatment plans to each individual’s unique needs.
When to Seek Help
If you have experienced trauma and are struggling with persistent symptoms that affect your daily life, professional support can help you heal. You are not alone—many people recover fully with the right care.
Registration closes 1st June
Testimonials
Maudsley Health - Psychiatry and Psychology Clinic in Abu Dhabi
135 Google reviewsPosted on Google![]()
Salma Mokhtar29 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The clinic is really nice and comfortable, and the reception team always makes me feel welcome, especially Marwan. I feel home whenever he’s around, and whenever there’s a problem, I know it will be sorted out without me having to worry about it. Every time I recommend the clinic to someone honestly Marwan is one of the main reasons behind it. His support and the way he handles things make such a big difference. I’d also like to thank the Call Center for always being so helpful and kind and for answering my calls so quickly every time specially one lady but unfortunately i forgot her name but mostly all of them are so good. It’s truly appreciated!Posted on Google![]()
Suad Abdullah20 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dear Dr. Dalal, I would like to sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the care, kindness, patience, and attention you have shown us. Your support and understanding have meant so much to me, and having a doctor who truly listens and cares about my child has given me so much reassurance and comfort. Thank you for every kind word, every piece of advice, and for helping me understand my child better and know how to support him in the best way possible. I am truly grateful to have met you. May God bless you, your work, and your beautiful heart, and may all the children and families you help be a source of reward for you. With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation. 🤍🌷 I would highly recommend Dr. Dalal to any parent looking for a caring, knowledgeable, and compassionate doctor. From my personal experience, she is not only professional and experienced, but also genuinely caring and attentive. She takes the time to listen, understand the child, and guide the parents with patience and reassurance. I truly feel grateful that we found her, and I would confidently recommend her to any family looking for the right support for their child. Thank you, Dr. Dalal, for making such a positive difference in our journey. 🤍🌷Posted on Google![]()
khawla alhosani17 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a wonderful experience with Dr. Haidar AlAbdullah, Consultant Psychiatrist. He is an exceptional doctor who is professional, compassionate, and genuinely attentive to his patients. From our very first interaction, Dr. Haider made us feel comfortable and listened to us with patience and understanding. He took the time to explain everything clearly and approached the situation with great care and professionalism. What stood out the most was his calm and reassuring manner, as well as the genuine concern he showed throughout our visit. We truly appreciated how he made us feel heard, respected, and supported. We are very grateful for the excellent care we received and would highly recommend Dr. Haider to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, compassionate, and trustworthy psychiatrist. An outstanding doctor and a truly positive experience.Posted on Google![]()
asma masood12 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I’ve had a very positive experience at this therapy center. The staff are welcoming and supportive, and I especially want to thank Dr. Fatima for her kindness, care, and constant support. She always makes me feel comfortable and understood. I truly appreciate her positive attitude and the way she encourages me throughout my journey. Highly recommended! 🤍Posted on Google![]()
mahra salem25 June 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
شكرا الدكتور تا رPosted on Google![]()
ZAYED AMER9 June 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It’s very good hospitalPosted on Google![]()
Amal Al Mazrouei2 June 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
ال ركز تاز جداً، والخد ة فيه راقية ن لحظة الاستقبال وحتى انتهاء الجلسة. ج يع ال وظفين تعاونون ويستقبلون ال راجعين بابتسا ة وأسلوب احترافي رائع. الشكر الخاص للدكتور جورج تدرس على خبرته وت يزه في العلاج، وللدكتورة كريستين (Therapist) على اهت ا ها وتعا لها ال يز. تجربة رائعة بكل ال قاييس، وكل الشكر والتقدير لفريق الع ل. I had an excellent experience at Maudsley Health. From the moment I arrived, the reception team was welcoming, professional, and always greeted me with a smile. The entire staff is kind, supportive, and genuinely cares about patients. A special thank you to Dr. George Tedros for his outstanding expertise, professionalism, and compassionate approach to treatment. I would also like to express my appreciation to Ms. Christine, Therapist, for her exceptional support, dedication, and care throughout the journey. The quality of care, professionalism, and patient-centered approach at Maudsley Health truly make it an outstanding center for mental health and neurological care. Highly recommended. Amal Al MazroueiPosted on Google![]()
Hreefi25 May 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
After a year and a half at the center with Consultant Fatima Qadori, I became the person I truly wanted to be. She helped me tremendously in healing from my trauma and finding myself again. Her advice and the specific mental exercises she provided helped me restart my life with ease and confidence. Everyone at the center makes you feel safe, welcomed, and happy. I can never forget Dr. Rita, who always made me feel proud of myself and encouraged me to keep going. From the valet staff to the lovely ladies at the reception — Sana, Lama, Amal, and everyone else — all of them were kind, supportive, and caring. Thank you, Maudsley. You are truly a blessing.Posted on Google![]()
mia22 May 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Starting therapy was one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself. I was nervous at first and honestly didn’t know what to expect, but this experience has truly helped me grow, heal, and understand myself better in ways I never thought would be possible. I’m especially grateful to my therapist, Dr. Rima, for creating such a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space. Thank you for your patience, kindness, guidance, and for genuinely listening and helping me navigate difficult moments. Your support has made a real difference in my life, and I deeply appreciate all the care and effort you put into your patients and your work. I’m truly grateful for the dedication and compassion you show every day. If anyone is hesitant about starting therapy , I would just like to say that that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness , yes taking the first step might feel scary but it can also change your life in the best way possible.Posted on Google![]()
Noor Badri27 April 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I can’t recommend Melissa enough. She has supported me through one of the most difficult periods of my life with so much compassion, patience and understanding. In a season that often felt like walking through a storm without a map, she was a steady sense of warmth. If you’re looking for a therapist who is kind, insightful and genuinely invested in her clients, I wholeheartedly recommend her. The clinic overall feels like a safe space, where you and your needs are taken care of from pre-appointment communication through to post treatment follow up.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
At Maudsley Health, we offer confidential, evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. Our experienced psychologists and psychiatrists are dedicated to helping you regain a sense of safety, control, and hope.
Contact us today to arrange a consultation and start your journey toward healing.

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