Learn how to diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and manage its symptoms in this free online PTSD course.

This psychology course provides an overview of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and describes its causes, symptoms and treatment options. We cover various topics related to PTSD, such as trauma and stress-related disorders, managing symptoms and different approaches to therapy. We examine some evidence-based treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). The course then explains how self-care techniques can be employed at home to complement these therapies and manage PTSD symptoms.

We begin by providing an introduction to PTSD that covers its definition, symptoms and diagnostic criteria. We then explore the different types of traumatic events that can lead to PTSD, including natural disasters, sexual assault and combat. The course also discusses the risk factors that lead to PTSD, such as a history of trauma or mental illness, and establishes the importance of seeking help if someone is experiencing PTSD symptoms.

This psychology course describes various treatments for PTSD, including medications and psychotherapy. The course shows you how professional evidence-based treatments like CBT can be supplemented by self-care methods like mindfulness meditation, relaxation exercises and other stress-management techniques. Sign up to learn how to manage the symptoms of PTSD and break the chains of trauma that can ruin a person’s life.