In the United States, 50% of women and 60% of men experience a traumatic event at least once in their lives. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs after someone has gone through such an event. Experiencing trauma doesn’t automatically mean you will develop PTSD, but factors out of your control may make you more susceptible. At The Mending Place PLLC, located in Houston, Texas, Leann Smith, PhD, and the team are well-versed in managing and treating PTSD and can help you understand your symptoms and triggers. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or requesting one online today.
After experiencing something traumatic, it’s normal to feel shaken. But sometimes those feelings don’t fade—they linger, show up in unexpected ways, and start to interfere with everyday life. That’s when it might be post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
PTSD can look different for everyone, but here are some common signs:
If you’re noticing any of these in yourself or someone you care about, please know you’re not alone, and you don’t have to go through it without support.
Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, and that’s one of the hardest parts—it’s unpredictable. But certain situations do carry a higher risk.
You might be more likely to develop PTSD if the trauma happened directly to you (as opposed to witnessing it) or if it involved a personal violation, like abuse or assault.
Some of the more common triggers include:
People in high-stress professions—like military service members, police officers, healthcare workers, first responders, or journalists covering war zones—may also face repeated exposure to trauma.
It’s important to remember that PTSD is not a sign of weakness. It’s a natural response to something deeply distressing. If you’ve been through a traumatic experience and you’re struggling, reaching out for help is one of the bravest things you can do.
Healing from PTSD is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Treatment is about helping you process what happened, reduce the emotional pain, and feel more grounded and present in your daily life.
Depending on your needs, treatment may include:
Working with a therapist trained in trauma can be incredibly helpful. Together, you might explore approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, prolonged exposure therapy, or group and family support. The goal is to help you make sense of your experience, manage your emotions, and reconnect with yourself and others.
For some people, medication can ease symptoms like anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances. It’s often used alongside therapy to support your healing journey.
You don’t have to let PTSD define you. Healing takes time, but it is absolutely possible with the right support and care. If you’re ready to take that first step, the team at The Mending Place PLLC is here to walk beside you. Call us or request an appointment online today.