Acute Stress, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Professional Care for Trauma-Related Challenges
Trauma can shape how a person thinks, feels, and responds to the world around them. It may come from a single event—such as an accident, loss, or frightening experience—or from ongoing exposure to stress, conflict, or adversity. Trauma does not affect everyone in the same way. Some people notice changes immediately, while others only recognise the impact months or even years later. When trauma begins to influence daily life, relationships, or a sense of safety, support from a psychologist or psychiatrist can make a meaningful difference.
Acute stress reactions may include difficulty sleeping, irritability, concentration problems, or feeling constantly alert.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is diagnosed when symptoms persist and begin interfering with daily life. People may experience intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance of reminders, panic responses, changes in mood, or a sense of disconnection from others.
Trauma affects people differently across stages of life. Children may show changes in behaviour, school refusal, regression in skills, anxiety during separation, or increased fearfulness. Teenagers might withdraw socially or take more risks in an attempt to cope. Adults may struggle with trust, relationships, or functioning at work. These responses are not signs of weakness - they are the brain and body’s way of responding to distressing events.
In Australia, around 5–10% of the population will experience PTSD in their lifetime, making it one of the most common mental health conditions linked to stress and trauma (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2022). Professional support can help individuals regain a sense of confidence and emotional balance.
How Lakeside Rooms Can Help
Lakeside Rooms psychologists and psychiatrists provide trauma-informed care tailored to each person’s pace and comfort. The focus is on strengthening coping strategies, building emotional understanding, and helping individuals process and integrate difficult experiences.
Therapeutic approaches may include:
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) – reducing trauma-related thoughts and anxiety.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy – supporting the brain’s natural healing process.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) strategies – managing strong emotions in healthy ways
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – reconnecting with values and meaningful activities.
Narrative or attachment-focused therapies – understanding how trauma shapes identity and relationships
Somatic and Mindfulness-based approaches – easing physical tension and calming the nervous system.
Psychiatric consultation can provide medical insight into symptoms, co-occurring conditions, or treatment options.
Support may also involve strengthening social connections, rebuilding routines, and addressing impacts on sleep, learning, or work. Psychiatrists are available for assessment and medical treatment where helpful.
Lakeside Rooms provides compassionate, evidence-based care for those affected by trauma - helping individuals of all ages feel more grounded, supported, and confident in their recovery journey.
Take the first step towards support.
