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What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

Traumatic events can include combat, assault, accident, natural disaster, or serious injury. PTSD is characterised by persistent distressing memories, heightened arousal, and emotional numbing that do not resolve with time. These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s mood, sleep, concentration, and relationships, often leading to avoidance of reminders of the trauma.

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What causes PTSD?

PTSD develops when the brain’s stress system becomes stuck in survival mode after trauma, keeping the body in a constant state of alarm.

It occurs when the brain and body fail to recover from an overwhelming event and causing the “fight-or-flight” system to remain overactive. The amygdala (brain's fear centre) stays hyperactive, while calming regions of the brain remain underactive. This imbalance fuels intrusive memories, hypervigilance, and emotional numbing. Genetics, prior trauma, and chronic stress can heighten vulnerability and prolong recovery.

PTSD is treatable. Early intervention with trauma-focused therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), pharmacotherapy, and emerging treatments like ketamine and stellate ganglion block (SGB) can help recalibrate the stress response and promote healing.

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Common symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms often persist long after trauma has ended.

Recognising the symptoms of PTSD can help guide people to appropriate treatment and support. While different for different people, common symptoms may include:

  • Intrusive memories or flashbacks
  • Nightmares and disturbed sleep
  • Intense anxiety or panic
  • Irritability or anger outbursts
  • Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response
  • Emotional numbness or withdrawal
  • Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
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How can we help

At Anodyne, we specialise in treatment-resistant PTSD. Our therapies go beyond standard medications and therapy.

Ketamine and Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) can help restore nervous system balance disrupted by trauma. Ketamine promotes neuroplasticity and emotional reset, while SGB calms overactive stress pathways, reducing hyperarousal, anxiety, and intrusive symptoms to support recovery.

Ketamine therapy

Ketamine therapy acts on brain pathways differently from traditional antidepressants, it can provide rapid relief for PTSD symptoms and supporting new neural connections that can help with recovery.

Ketamine therapy
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Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) can calm the overactive “fight-or-flight” response by blocking nerve signals in the stellate ganglion, reducing hypervigilance, nightmares, and anxiety.

Stellate ganglion block

Our unique approach

We combine expertise in psychiatry and pain medicine to address PTSD from multiple angles — both psychological and physiological.

This unique approach makes Anodyne a trusted partner for both patients and health professionals seeking advanced care options.


What to expect

Personalised treatment plans built around your history and goals

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Collaboration with your psychiatrist, GP, or therapist to ensure integrated care

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Evidence-based use of ketamine and SGB, supported by clinical research

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A dual focus on rapid relief and sustainable recovery

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Why choose Anodyne?

We understand how isolating and exhausting PTSD can be.

Our compassionate clinicians take time to listen, explain your options, and provide treatment in safe, comfortable environments. With experience treating veterans, first responders, and civilians, we know the importance of tailored, respectful care.

About Anodyne
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Want to know more?

Take the next step

If you’re living with PTSD and standard treatments haven’t helped, you’re not alone — and there are options. Book an appointment or make an enquiry to explore whether advanced therapies like SGB or ketamine may be right for you.

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