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Medical Author:

Maria Pease, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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PTSD Prognosis

The prognosis for PTSD depends upon the severity and length of time a person has suffered from the disorder. The majority of patients with PTSD respond to psychotherapy. There are often residual symptoms, however, and we cannot yet predict who will respond best. Studies have shown in other conditions such as OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) that psychotherapy can actually change how the brain's chemistry functions. It is reasonable to assume that these changes are possible in PTSD as well.

There are significant risks to a person with PTSD if they do not receive treatment. They may stay in a hyperaroused state, further damaging their brain. They may lose their job and/or family due to their irritability, anxiety, or numbness interfering with their ability to love and to work. Suicide is also a risk with untreated PTSD.