Healing the Trauma: PTSD in the Indian Context

What is PTSD? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. While often associated with war, in India, common triggers include severe road accidents, domestic violence, natural disasters, or unexpected loss of a loved one.   

Symptoms of PTSD

• Re-experiencing: Flashbacks or nightmares where the trauma feels like it is happening again.

• Avoidance: Staying away from places or reminders of the event (e.g., avoiding driving after an accident).

• Hyperarousal: Being easily startled, feeling tense, or having angry outbursts.   

• Negative Mood: Feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from family.

PTSD in Students and Youth A growing area of concern in India is “academic trauma,” where severe failure or pressure in competitive environments leads to PTSD-like symptoms, including flashbacks of exam halls or severe avoidance of academic settings.

Legal Rights and Support Under the Mental Healthcare Act 2017, persons with mental illness, including severe PTSD, have the right to protection from cruel or degrading treatment and the right to affordable care. The Act also decriminalizes suicide attempts (Section 115), recognizing that such acts are often the result of severe stress or trauma.

Treatment Options

• Trauma-Focused Therapy: Therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) help the brain process traumatic memories.   

• Medication: Antidepressants can help manage the symptoms of sadness and anxiety associated with PTSD.   

• Support Groups: Connecting with survivors of similar experiences reduces isolation.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I get PTSD from a road accident? A: Yes. Road traffic accidents are a leading cause of PTSD in the civilian population in India. Early intervention is key to recovery.

Q: Is PTSD a disability? A: Severe mental illness can be recognized as a disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016, entitling individuals to specific accommodations if the impairment is substantial.