Potentially traumatic events are distressing incidents that disrupt daily life, often posing a threat to a person’s physical or psychological well-being. Examples of situations leading to psychological trauma include acts of violence such as armed robberies, war, or terrorism; natural disasters like bushfires, earthquakes, or floods; interpersonal trauma such as sexual assult, domestic violence, or child abuse; the traumatic loss of a loved one, including suicides; experiencing life-threatening illnesses or injuries; involvement in serious motor vehicle or workplace accidents; and learning about close family members or friends being involved in traumatic events.

The disorder is characterised by an inability to recover following exposure to or witnessing a traumatic event. It can persist for months or even years, with triggers capable of evoking memories of the trauma, often accompanied by intense emotional and physical reactions. Symptoms may include nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of trauma-related situations, heightened reactivity to stimuli, and feelings of anxiety or depression. Treatment typically involves various forms of psychotherapy along with medication and therapies to alleviate symptoms.