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PTSD and Anxiety: Understanding the Connection

PTSD and anxiety are closely linked because both conditions often develop after trauma and share overlapping symptoms such as hypervigilance, sleep disturbance, and avoidance behaviours.  

While they are clinically distinct, some people experience them together—making it important to understand how they interact and what evidence-based treatments are available. 

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in five adults has experienced a mental health condition in the last 12 months.   Recognising the signs of PTSD and anxiety can help individuals access timely, effective support.  

This article explores the shared features, causes, and treatment options. 

PTSD and Anxiety: What Are They? 

PTSD is a mental health condition that can occur following exposure to an actual or threatened traumatic or stressful event such as death, serious injury, or sexual violence. Common sources of trauma include accidents, natural disasters, physical or sexual assault, war, and childhood abuse.  

PTSD can present with symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbing, irritability, and hypervigilance. These symptoms often interfere with daily functioning and relationships. 

Anxiety, on the other hand, includes a broad group of conditions such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety.  

People with anxiety disorders often experience persistent worry, nervousness, difficulty concentrating, and physiological symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, and gastrointestinal discomfort. 

While PTSD is classified under trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and anxiety under anxiety disorders, the two can coexist. In fact, many individuals with PTSD also report chronic anxiety, and some receive a dual diagnosis. 

How PTSD and Anxiety Overlap 

The overlap between PTSD and anxiety is well documented in psychological literature. Both conditions share symptoms such as: 

  • Hyperarousal (e.g., restlessness, exaggerated startle response) 
  • Avoidance behaviours (avoiding triggers or reminders) 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Sleep disturbances 

PTSD often includes anxiety symptoms because the body’s stress response system remains over-activated after trauma.  

For example, someone who survived a car accident may experience persistent fear while driving, even long after the physical injuries have healed. 

In some cases, anxiety may precede PTSD. Individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders may be more vulnerable to developing PTSD following trauma. Conversely, the onset of PTSD may lead to ongoing anxiety unrelated to the original traumatic event. 

Contributing Factors to PTSD and Anxiety 

While everyone reacts to stress differently, certain factors increase the risk of developing PTSD, anxiety, or both: 

  • Exposure to trauma: Particularly when it involves a threat to life or personal integrity. 
  • Childhood adversity: Early experiences of neglect, abuse, or attachment disruption can sensitise individuals to stress. 
  • Lack of social support: Individuals who lack emotional or practical support may be more vulnerable. 
  • Family history: Genetics and learned coping behaviours can increase susceptibility. 
  • Cognitive style: People who tend to ruminate or interpret events in a catastrophic way are more likely to develop persistent symptoms. 

Importantly, not all individuals exposed to trauma develop PTSD or anxiety. Protective factors—such as strong social connections, healthy coping strategies, and timely access to support—can reduce risk and aid recovery. 

Recognising When to Seek Help 

While short-term distress after trauma is a normal human reaction, symptoms that persist for more than one month, worsen over time, or interfere with daily life may require professional attention. Some signs to look out for include: 

  • Intrusive memories or flashbacks that feel vivid and distressing 
  • Persistent worry or fear that feels out of proportion to current life circumstances 
  • Avoidance of activities, places, or conversations related to past trauma 
  • Sleep disturbances, including nightmares or insomnia 
  • Difficulty functioning at work, school, or in relationships 

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seeking help from a registered psychologist or mental health professional can be a valuable first step. 

Treatment Options in Australia 

A variety of treatments are available to support individuals living with PTSD and anxiety.  

1. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) 

CBT offers one treatment approach for both PTSD and anxiety disorders. It helps individuals identify unhelpful thought patterns, reframe distressing beliefs, and build coping strategies.  

In the case of PTSD, trauma-focused CBT includes elements such as exposure therapy and cognitive restructuring to address trauma-related memories and fears. 

2. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) 

EMDR is an evidence-based therapy designed specifically for trauma-related conditions. It involves recalling distressing events while engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements), which can help reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact. 

3. Online and Self-Guided Programs 

There are  a range of accessible digital mental health resources available online. Programs such as those offered by MindSpot and the Centre for Clinical Interventions (CCI) provide free, structured, online therapy modules for PTSD and anxiety.  

These programs can be used independently or alongside therapist support. 

4. Lifestyle Interventions 

Physical activity, mindfulness meditation, balanced nutrition, and regular sleep patterns all contribute to emotional regulation and mental wellbeing. These strategies are not substitutes for therapy but can complement clinical treatment. 

A Holistic and Trauma-Informed Approach 

Trauma-informed care recognises the widespread impact of trauma and prioritises safety, empowerment, and collaboration in treatment. A trauma-informed psychologist will work with clients to: 

  • Develop a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship 
  • Identify triggers and teach grounding techniques 
  • Explore the meaning of traumatic experiences in a non-judgmental way 
  • Empower clients to set the pace of treatment 

Recovery is not about forgetting the trauma—it’s about integrating the experience in a way that no longer controls your life. 

At Strategic Psychology, our team of psychologists are here to support your journey toward recovery. 

Contact Strategic Psychology to speak with a registered psychologist about your options for managing PTSD and anxiety. 

Moving Forward 

Living with PTSD and anxiety can feel overwhelming, but help is available. Many individuals experience relief through a combination of therapy, support, and self-care. There is no one-size-fits-all solution—what matters most is taking that first step toward support. 

If you are navigating the challenges of PTSD or anxiety, know that you are not alone. Professional help can offer tools to manage symptoms, process trauma, and reclaim your wellbeing. 

Reach out to Strategic Psychology today to begin your personalised journey toward mental wellness. 

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