PTSD Interventions for Adults: How to Help Someone With PTSD
July 30, 2025
Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, is a chronic mental health condition that can develop from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It’s not a rare condition, as research reveals that a large number of the population (estimated as 37-92%) are exposed to trauma at some point in their lives.1
As a result, many of these people display typical PTSD symptoms. However, most people recover from trauma with effective treatment, ensuring long-term positive outcomes.2
Yet, for some trauma survivors (an estimated 10-20%), intrusive PTSD symptoms can persist long after the event and become chronic. In such cases, symptoms usually interfere with everyday life functioning and can cause significant distress.3
Although destabilized mental health is expected after exposure to traumatic events, if you or someone you know continues to struggle with PTSD symptoms, it’s important to take action. The sooner professional advice is sought, the better the outcomes for recovery.
This page can help by giving an overview of everything you need to know about trauma and mental health recovery, including:
How PTSD affects adults long-term- When to seek help for PTSD
- PTSD therapy options explained
- PTSD crisis intervention strategies
- Coping skills for PTSD flashbacks
- Managing PTSD symptoms naturally
- How to help someone with PTSD
How PTSD Affects Adults Long-Term
Unfortunately, the pain of trauma doesn’t end with the experience of the disturbing event. Instead, the effects of trauma can linger over time and cause long-term consequences. If overlooked or left untreated, symptoms that were initially a normal reaction to trauma exposure can become chronic and disruptive to someone’s life.
The following is a breakdown of how PTSD affects adults long-term.4
Emotion regulation problems: People living with PTSD typically have difficulties with emotion regulation. For instance, they may experience a lot of anxiety and fear – even in situations that seem calm and harmless. Low self-esteem, hopelessness, and negative moods might be present, but it’s also possible that the person feels rather “numb” and emotionless.- Cognitive difficulties: On a cognitive level, long-term effects of trauma include distractibility, lack of focus and motivation, and forgetfulness.5 This might cause difficulties at the workplace, but also with interpersonal relationships in general. Other socially relevant PTSD effects center around distrust, attachment issues, or self-isolation.6,7
- Physical issues: The lingering effects of trauma can also be noticed in the body. People who live with PTSD are known to commonly experience nervous system dysregulation, sleep disturbances, body aches, gastrointestinal issues, and a lower immune system. They may also be at higher risk for certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular or autoimmune disorders.8
When to Seek Help for PTSD: Symptoms Overview
It’s recommended that people who have been exposed to traumatic events pay extra attention to their mental and physical health, as trauma can affect both the mind and the body. While sometimes, symptoms can be loud and disruptive, other times, they can be subtle or easily attributed to other causes. Therefore, it’s invaluable to be aware of how post-traumatic stress can show up.
Diagnostic criteria for PTSD include four clusters of symptoms:4
Intusion: Disturbing, unwanted thoughts, flashbacks, memories, or nightmares associated with the event- Avoidance: Altering daily life activities to avoid reminders or triggers of the trauma (such as withdrawing from specific locations or people).
- Negative affect: Changes in beliefs and moods (like shame, guilt, or an inability to feel positive emotions)
- Arousal & reactivity: Heightened nervous system reactivity that shows in unusual reactions, such as being easily startled or overly irritable, aggressive, or distracted
Trauma survivors diagnosed with PTSD typically experience a mix of these four types of symptoms for more than a month and in a way that disrupts their overall daily functioning. Nevertheless, this is not to say that post-traumatic stress is not valid unless someone meets all diagnostic criteria for PTSD.
On the contrary, anyone who has been through or has witnessed a traumatic event is recommended to take extra care of their well-being. This might include seeking support or professional help if they feel uneasy and have difficulties coping.
That being said, the next sections discuss the most common adult PTSD treatment programs, as well as additional alternative measures and support possibilities.
PTSD Therapy Options Explained
Fortunately, the symptoms of PTSD can be treated and significantly improve with the proper effort and care. Many trauma recovery therapy options exist and have been shown to be highly effective.
Literature reviewing large numbers of studies has indicated the types of psychotherapy that demonstrate the best results in PTSD symptoms management. These include:9
1. Prolonged Exposure (PE):
PE focuses on gradually facing trauma triggers in a structured and safe manner. The core of this method lies in the idea that the traumatic event is not processed on an emotional level at the time it happens. Therefore, the goal is to revisit and activate triggers, and, from there, work on effective emotional processing.
2. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT):
As its name suggests, CPT focuses on the cognitive processing of a traumatic event. It centers around dysfunctional beliefs and thoughts that have been developed around the trauma and works to challenge these beliefs and integrate new, healthier ones.
3. Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
An adaptation of classic CBT principles, trauma-informed CBT takes into account trauma aspects. While this approach shares similarities with CPT, CBT is not so focused on direct and immediate cognitive processing. Rather, its emphasis is on building safety and trust first (stabilizing), as well as on grounding and skill-building.
4. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
EMDR is an evidence-based approach focused on reprocessing of the trauma memory that is “stuck” or stored maladaptively. The method uses bilateral stimulation: alternating between engaging the left and right sides of the body or brain through visual, auditory, or tactile cues. It’s known to be quick and highly effective for the relief of trauma symptoms.10
It’s important to note that complex PTSD intervention plans may vary from the traditional PTSD treatment course. Typically, complex PTSD care combines multiple facets, including individual therapy, group therapy, and family counseling.11
PTSD Crisis Intervention Strategies
PTSD is a chronic, long-term condition for which adult PTSD treatment programs and therapy structures are recommended. However, there are some situations in which immediate trauma-related first aid is necessary.
The first window for this type of intervention is immediately after the traumatic event. The second situation in which first aid might be necessary and helpful is during an acute episode of PTSD – typically an intense moment of what is known as “trauma flashbacks.” The following are steps you can take to help someone in either of these two contexts.
1. Immediate Support After Trauma Exposure
After being faced with a traumatic experience, the person needs immediate stabilization and support. Core elements of such first aid include:12
Physical safety: Basic needs as shelter, rest, and medical care- Calm and gentle presence: Emotional validation, physical presence, and support without pressure towards the survivor (for instance, requiring them to talk about the event)
- Connection to loved ones: Getting in touch with close, trusted family members, friends, or mental health professionals
- Practical assistance and links to professional help: Helping with the practical aspects of the situation and encouraging further trauma and mental health recovery
2. Coping Skills for PTSD Flashbacks
Flashbacks, as the most potentially disruptive and scariest part of PTSD, can cause a PTSD crisis, where survivors relive the event as if it were happening in the present moment. This is a phase of profound distress, so it’s key to know how to help yourself or someone else in such moments. Effective flashbacks first-aid includes:
Grounding with sensory techniques: Based on the idea that, while a flashback interrupts normal cognitive ability and emotion regulation, processing of sensory information (like sights, sounds, or touch) remains intact. Focusing on such information (such as naming five things you can see, hear, or touch) can bring the person back to the present and disrupt the dissociation episode.13- Breathing exercises: Breathing can help regulate the nervous system as well as other physiological symptoms related to flashback-induced “fight or flight” mode (such as an elevated heart rate, muscle tension, and so on).8-10 Therefore, following specific breathing structures can significantly improve the bodily state during a crisis. Box breathing is one such useful technique.
- Mindfulness and staying in the present: Encourages trauma survivors to bring themselves back to the present moment – where they are safe – by using strategies like verbal affirmations or mantras, as well as comfort items.12,13
Trauma and Mental Health Recovery Long-Term
Trauma help and recovery consist of multiple facets. Immediate intervention after trauma exposure is highly recommended and can significantly lower the negative effects of trauma on someone’s mental health.14
Adult PTSD treatment programs typically include up to 12-20 sessions, and such approaches can effectively assist in survivors’ overall stabilization and cognitive processing.2 Acute crisis management is also necessary in many PTSD cases, and a number of techniques can be learned and practiced to effectively tackle disruptive PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks.
Apart from these approaches for trauma recovery, survivors are also recommended to look into managing PTSD symptoms naturally. This could mean adopting a holistic lifestyle approach.
Recommendations for trauma-informed care for PTSD include:
Regular exercise and movement: Based on the idea that trauma lives in the body, and physical activity can help to move physically “stuck” energies.8- A balanced diet to support brain and body health: Research on nutrition and mental health agrees on the profound role of diet in preventing mental disorders as well as for improving the symptoms of various psychological and psychiatric conditions.15
- Nature therapy and time outdoors: Multiple approaches, such as horticultural therapy, successfully regulate mental health symptoms, due to the grounding and calming aspects of interacting with nature.16,17
- Journaling and expressive arts: Giving unprocessed emotions a way out – through art and writing – can be healing for trauma survivors who might find it hard to put a voice to their internal experiences.8
- Mindfulness or meditation practices: Approaches based on the connection to the present, as well as to the self, can be highly effective for trauma survivors long-term. These methods may be particularly useful for those who tend to dissociate and experience intense flashbacks.18
Mission Connection: Professional Support for PTSD
PTSD can be challenging to cope with – and not everyone knows how to help someone with PTSD, no matter how much they might want to. Not only has the person been exposed to a terrible, traumatizing event, but they also tend to relive the trauma over and over again.
Trauma survivors need and deserve all the support and care they can possibly get. If you or someone you love has been through trauma or is dealing with PTSD, a timely and well-suited trauma and mental health recovery plan can ensure long-term recovery.
This is where Mission Connection can help. Our team is here to assist with any doubts or struggles you might have about your journey. We’re familiar with the effects of PTSD on the lives of individuals and their families, and can fit care around your specific needs. Whether this is complex PTSD intervention plans, advice on PTSD support resources, or further insight into adult PTSD treatment programs.
If you’re ready to start the road to recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here 24/7 to answer any concerns.
References
- Breslau, N., Kessler, R. C., Chilcoat, H. D., Schultz, L. R., Davis, G. C., & Andreski, P. (1998). Trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder in the community: The 1996 Detroit Area Survey of Trauma. Archives of General Psychiatry, 55(7), 626–632. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.55.7.626
- Watkins, L. E., Sprang, K. R., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2018). Treating PTSD: A review of evidence-based psychotherapy interventions. Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience, 12, 258.
- Norris, F. H., & Sloane, L. B. (2007). The epidemiology of trauma and PTSD. In M. J. Friedman, T. M. Keane, & P. A. Resick (Eds.), Handbook of PTSD: Science and practice (pp. 78–98). Guilford Press.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR). American Psychiatric Publishing.
- Brandes, D., Ben-Schachar, G., Gilboa, A., Bonne, O., Freedman, S., & Shalev, A. Y. (2002). PTSD symptoms and cognitive performance in recent trauma survivors. Psychiatry Research, 110(2), 231–238. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0165-1781(02)00125-7
- Hepp, J., Schmitz, S. E., Urbild, J., Zauner, K., & Niedtfeld, I. (2021). Childhood maltreatment is associated with distrust and negatively biased emotion processing. Borderline Personality Disorder and Emotion Dysregulation, 8(5). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40479-020-00143-5
- Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2007). Attachment in adulthood: Structure, dynamics, and change. Guilford Press.
- van der Kolk, B. A. (2015). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin Books.
- Watkins, L. E., Sprang, K. R., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2018). Treating PTSD: A review of evidence-based psychotherapy interventions. Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, 12, 258. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00258
- Shapiro, E. (2012). EMDR and early psychological intervention following trauma. Revue Européenne de Psychologie Appliquée/European Review of Applied Psychology, 62(4), 241–251. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erap.2012.09.003
- Cloitre, M., Courtois, C. A., Charuvastra, A., Carapezza, R., Stolbach, B. C., & Green, B. L. (2011). Treatment of complex PTSD: Results of the ISTSS expert clinician survey on best practices. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 24(6), 615–627. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.20697
- Nash, W. P., & Watson, P. J. (2012). Review of VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guideline on management of acute stress and interventions to prevent posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, 49(5), 637–648.
- Hammond, J., & Brown, W. J. (2025). Building an operational definition of grounding. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 1–14.
- Zhang, L., Zhou, J., & Li, L. (2012). Crisis intervention in the acute stage after trauma. International Journal of Emergency Mental Health and Human Resilience, 14(3), 179–184.
- Bhat, N., Dahal, A., Shakya, Y., & Dhungana, N. (2023). Exploring the role of nutrition in mental health: A narrative review. Journal of Psychiatrists’ Association of Nepal, 12(1), 39–46. https://doi.org/10.3126/jpan.v12i1.59429
- Siu, A. M. H., Kam, M., & Mok, I. (2020). Horticultural therapy program for people with mental illness: A mixed-method evaluation. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(3), 711. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17030711
- Lee, M. S., Lee, J., Park, B. J., & Miyazaki, Y. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: A randomized crossover study. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 34, 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40101-015-0060-8
- Follette, V. M., Palm, K. M., & Pearson, A. N. (2006). Mindfulness and trauma: Implications for treatment. Journal of Rational-Emotive and Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, 24(1), 45–61.
