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S4C

Cymorth

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

This information is primarily aimed at those who have been in the forces, but PTSD can affect anybody who has been through a particularly traumatic event in their lives, one which has usually meant great physical danger.

Psychologically, some people find it very difficult to deal with the strong imprint that this can create on their memories and go on to suffer symptoms which might include nightmares or flashbacks.

This can have a big impact on their lives, including their relationships or ability to work, especially if they are seeking to adjust to life outside the forces.  There are, however, a number of treatments available, and understanding of the condition has advanced in the last few tears.

Useful contacts

    Combat Stress

    Combat Stress is an organisation aimed at helping those who have been in the forces and are suffering some sort of trauma because of their experiences - no matter when or where they served. They have experts and centres across the UK. More information by going to the website or by phoning one of the centres listed here.

    Mind Cymru

    Mind Cymru has 20 local groups across Wales, and can give you high standard information about your local services and any help available connected to mental health in your area. Go to their website for good, up-to-date information about any aspect of mental health or phone the MindInfoLine.

    • Address: MIND Aberystwyth The Mill Riverside Terrace Mill Street Aberystwyth Ceredigion SY23 1JB SY23 1JB
    • Telephone: 0300 123 3393 (9.15am-5.15pm, Monday to Friday)
    • Visit website

    Royal College of Psychiatry

    The Royal College of Psychiatry website has detailed, up-to-date information available about all types of depression and other mental illness, including symptoms and the best treatment options available.

    Soldier, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association

    The Soldier, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association is there to help those who are currently serving and those who have served in the past. They have branches across Wales and the UK. You can contact them about any subject, including Post traumatic Stress Disorder.

    • Telephone: 0800 731 4880 (until 10.30pm every night)
    • Visit website

    National Gulf Veterans and Families Association

    If you were in the Gulf War at the start of the nineties or have been part of the recent operations in the Middle East, such as Iraq, there is support available from the National Gulf Veterans and Families Association website and helpline.

    UK Trauma Group

    For more specific information about PTSD, the UK Trauma Group have a very useful website giving details of resources and centres which specialise in treating trauma.

    NHS Direct Wales

    NHS Direct Wales is a 24 hour helpline, which can give advice about health and health services across Wales. It is staffed by experienced nurses specially trained to give advice over the phone and provide information about all your local services.

    The Samaritans

    Confidential emotional support over the phone is available from the Samaritans - anytime, day or night. There's also a Welsh language service available on , open 7pm-11pm every evening.

    BACP - British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists

    For theraputic help for your condition, or if in need of help in a relationship, go to the BACP site to find out about your local qualified therapist, as well as the types of therapy available.

    Counselling Directory

    This site gives details of a variety of local support services and counselling availble to you.