What is PTSD?

PTSD stands for post-traumatic stress disorder. It is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses trauma. Some people may also develop PTSD after prolonged or repeated trauma. Symptoms can affect emotions, thoughts, behaviour, sleep and physical wellbeing.

Common symptoms may include:

• distressing memories, flashbacks or nightmares

• feeling on edge or constantly alert

• difficulty relaxing

• poor sleep

• irritability or angry outbursts

• poor concentration

• avoiding reminders of the traumatic event

• feeling emotionally numb, disconnected or isolated.
  
  

How PTSD may affect daily function

PTSD affects each person differently, but it may impact:

• daily routines and consistency

• sleep and recovery

• energy and fatigue

• confidence leaving the house or participating in activities

• concentration and task completion

• work, study or parenting demands

• social participation

• general day-to-day function

PTSD can make ordinary routines feel overwhelming. Sleep disturbance, hyperarousal, avoidance and poor concentration can all affect how a person manages their day, their relationships and their overall function.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health may help

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is not a primary treatment for PTSD itself, but it may help support people when PTSD is contributing to:

• reduced movement or physical activity

• deconditioning

• muscle tension

• poor confidence with movement

• difficulty returning to exercise

• fatigue-aware re-engagement in activity
  
  

Support may include:

• gentle movement and mobility support

• paced return to activity

• structured exercise for function

• graded physical conditioning

• support building movement confidence
  
  

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy may be relevant when PTSD is affecting:

• daily routines

• self-care

• fatigue management

• organisation of everyday tasks

• work, home or parenting roles

• participation in meaningful activities
  
  

OT may include:

• practical routine-building strategies

• pacing and energy management

• breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps

• support for function at home or in the community

• environmental or routine-based problem solving
  
  

Exercise Physiology

Exercise physiology may be appropriate for some people who need support with:

• graded return to exercise

• rebuilding strength and endurance

• developing a realistic physical activity plan

• improving confidence with activity

Exercise is not a replacement for trauma treatment, but for some people it can be a useful part of broader wellbeing support when introduced carefully and consistently.

Speech Pathology

Speech pathology is not usually relevant to PTSD itself unless there is a separate communication, swallowing or cognitive-communication issue that also needs support.

Important scope note

PTSD is a mental health condition and may need support from a GP, psychologist, psychiatrist, counsellor or other mental health professional. Allied health at Palms does not replace mental health treatment. Our role is to support the person where PTSD is affecting function, routine, movement, fatigue, participation or day-to-day activity, and to work within a broader care team where appropriate.

Trauma-focused psychological treatment is commonly recommended for PTSD, and help should be sought when symptoms are ongoing or interfering with daily life. Healthdirect also lists an Australian online PTSD program for adults as one available support option.

If someone is in crisis, at immediate risk, or having suicidal thoughts, urgent help is needed. In Australia, call 000 in an emergency.

Our approach

At Palms, we take a function-focused, goal-directed approach. That means we look at how PTSD is affecting the person in everyday life and what practical support may help. Therapy may focus on:

rebuilding confidence with activity

supporting routine and consistency

improving fatigue management

helping daily tasks feel more manageable

increasing participation in meaningful activities

supporting gradual return to movement and function

We also recognise that support often works best when it is coordinated with the person’s GP and mental health team where appropriate.

FAQ

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a very stressful, frightening or distressing event. Symptoms can continue long after the trauma and may significantly affect day-to-day life.

What are common symptoms of PTSD?

Common symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, feeling on edge, poor sleep, irritability, avoidance of reminders, poor concentration and feeling emotionally disconnected.

Can PTSD affect physical function?

Yes. PTSD can affect sleep, energy, routine, concentration, muscle tension, confidence and participation, which can reduce day-to-day physical function over time. This is supported by the common symptom patterns described in PTSD guidance.

Can physiotherapy help with PTSD?

Physiotherapy does not treat PTSD itself, but it may help support people where trauma-related symptoms are contributing to reduced movement, deconditioning, fatigue or difficulty returning to activity.

Can occupational therapy help with PTSD?

Yes, in some cases. Occupational therapy may help when PTSD is affecting daily routines, self-care, fatigue management, function at home or work, or participation in everyday activities.

Should someone with PTSD also see a doctor or psychologist?

Often, yes. PTSD may need support from a GP, psychologist, psychiatrist or other mental health professional. Allied health can support function, but does not replace trauma-focused mental health treatment.

What is the difference between PTSD and complex PTSD?

PTSD can develop after a traumatic event, while complex PTSD is associated with prolonged or repeated trauma and may also involve difficulties with emotional regulation, relationships and self-worth.

Can exercise help when someone has PTSD?

For some people, graded and realistic physical activity can be a helpful part of broader support, but it is not a replacement for trauma treatment.

When should someone seek urgent help?

Urgent help is needed if someone is in crisis, at immediate risk, or having suicidal thoughts. In Australia, call 000 in an emergency.

Our role is to support functional goals, participation, regulation strategies and daily living needs as part of a broader care team. Diagnosis and mental health treatment should be guided by an appropriate medical or mental health professional. 

If PTSD is affecting your energy, routine, confidence with movement or day-to-day function, our team can discuss whether allied health support may be appropriate as part of your broader care.

Please visit these other websites for further information:

Beyond Blue – Provides support for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

https://www.beyondblue.org.au

Mental Health Australia – The national peak body representing and advocating for the mental health sector.

https://mhaustralia.org

SANE Australia – Offers information, support, and resources for people affected by mental illness.

https://www.sane.org

Black Dog Institute – Provides resources for managing mood disorders, including schizophrenia.

https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au

Australian Psychological Society – Offers resources and a directory for finding psychologists who specialize in schizophrenia.

https://www.psychology.org.au

Schizophrenia Australia – Provides resources, support, and information specifically for individuals living with schizophrenia.

https://www.schizophrenia.org.au

Headspace – Offers mental health support for young people, including information on schizophrenia.

https://headspace.org.au

Your Mental Health – A guide to understanding and managing mental health conditions, including schizophrenia.

https://www.yourmentalhealth.org.au

Neuroscience Research Australia – Provides research-based information on mental health conditions, including schizophrenia.

https://www.neura.edu.au

Mind Australia – Offers services, resources, and support for mental health and well-being.

https://www.mindaustralia.org.au

Important disclaimer: This webpage contains general information only and is not intended to be relied upon as personal clinical advice. While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, it may not reflect the most current research or your individual circumstances. Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health does not accept liability for decisions made based on this information without an individualised assessment by an appropriately qualified health professional. If you have concerns, please contact us to book an assessment or speak with your GP/medical team.