Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): When the Mind Keeps Reliving the Pain

Have you ever noticed someone flinching at loud noises, avoiding certain roads, or becoming unusually quiet after a painful experience? For many Malaysians, these reactions aren’t just memories; they may be signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition that can deeply affect daily life.

PTSD doesn’t only happen to soldiers or accident survivors. It can affect anyone who has experienced trauma such as a serious accident, abuse, loss of a loved one, natural disaster, or witnessing something frightening.

What is PTSD?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), PTSD is a mental health condition that develops after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It’s normal to feel anxious or unsettled after something shocking. However, when these feelings last for more than a month and begin to interfere with work, family, or sleep, it may indicate PTSD.

Common Signs of PTSD

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health PTSD symptoms vary from person to person.

Common signs include:

• • Reliving the event (flashbacks or nightmares): Feeling as if the trauma is happening again.
  • Avoidance: Steering clear of people, places, or situations that bring back painful memories.
  • Hyperarousal: Feeling jumpy, tense, uncontrollable crying, or unable to relax even in safe situations.
  • Negative thoughts or mood changes: Experiencing guilt, sadness, or detachment from loved ones.
  • Sleep problems: Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to recurrin

Dr. Siti Nurul Aishah binti Jamaludin, Deputy Medical Director at Putra Medical Centre (PMC), explains that trauma affects both body and mind; if not processed thoroughly, it will lead to PTSD. Only time can heal and overcome the process. “Mental health is not just about avoiding illness. It is about creating space for peace, for healing, and for emotional balance. Never feel ashamed to ask for help.”

Why It Matters?

PTSD can affect anyone ,survivors of road accidents, frontliners during the pandemic, flood victims, or people who’ve lived through domestic violence. Some do not realise that they are going through it.

MOH Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) reports show that trauma-related stress is increasingly recognised in Malaysian communities, especially following disasters or major life changes.

Without support, PTSD can lead to:

• • Loss of communication skills with surroundings (Friends, family, etc.)
  • Long-term anxiety or depression
  • Substance misuse (to cope with distress)
  • Relationship or work difficulties
  • Physical health problems such as high blood pressure, fatigue, or insomnia
  • Weight gain or weight loss.

How PTSD is Treated?

Recovery from PTSD is possible with early, structured care. Treatment often includes a combination of therapy, medication, and social support.

• • Psychotherapy – Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) help patients reframe distressing memories and build coping skills.
  • Medication – Certain antidepressants can reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and ease intrusive thoughts when prescribed by a qualified clinician.
  • Support groups – Talking with others who understand similar experiences helps reduce isolation and guilt. (Spiritual groups, support groups, family, and friends)

“At PMC, our physicians and care teams combine a holistic approach, which includes counselling, medication (when needed), and family education to help patients feel safe and supported throughout the process.” added Dr. Siti Nurul Aishah.

How You Can Support Someone with PTSD?

If you know someone who may be struggling, remember, compassion matters more than advice.

• Listen without judgment. Let them share when they feel ready.
• Encourage professional help. Psychiatrists, psychologists, or counsellors can help manage symptoms safely.
• Be patient. Healing takes time. Avoid saying “move on” or “forget it.
• Create a sense of safety. Gentle routines and calm environments help rebuild trust and stability.
• Support group: Suggest seeing a professional counsellor, doctor, and spiritual group.

When to Seek Help?

If traumatic symptoms last longer than a month, or if you notice severe distress, withdrawal, or thoughts of self-harm, seek professional help immediately. You don’t have to face PTSD alone. Recovery is real, and help is available. PTSD isn’t a sign of weakness, let us help. PMC provides discreet mental‑health evaluations and counselling. Reach out today →

About Putra Medical Centre (PMC)

Putra Medical Centre (PMC) in Alor Setar provides trusted medical services and preventive health programmes for communities across Kedah and northern Malaysia.

For 24-hour medical assistance:
Tel: +604 734 2888 | +6011 1052 3600 | +6011 1052 3688
Fax: +604 734 8882
Email: pmc@putramedicentre.com.my
Website: pmck.com.my
WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+60104551125

Disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or call 999.

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