A new 20-year study has found that PTSD symptoms can persist or even worsen long after a traumatic event, sometimes lasting decades. The research followed thousands of responders to the 9/11 attacks and found that while many improved over time, others struggled for years, especially those without strong coping tools or social support.
This study is a powerful reminder that trauma doesn’t always follow a neat recovery timeline. For some, symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, or emotional numbness may resurface years later, especially after life changes like retirement, illness, or anniversaries of the event.
👉 If you live with PTSD, how has your experience evolved over time?
👉 Have certain life events made symptoms better or worse?
👉 What helps you feel safe, supported, or grounded when trauma flares up?
E2My PTSD Is related to childhood sexual trauma, and physical abuse. Im 53. I lived in misery My entire life. I did not get joy from anything. I was suicidal trying to survive. Everyday was excruciating. Nothing helped. It got worse as I got older. I landed inpatient in 2013, 2018, 2019, 2020. I started the carnivore diet on june 2023 when i discovered i have late stage lipedema to help with inflammation from late stage lipedema, and surprisingly, my debilitating depression went away after about 3 months. Its been 2 years, no more medication and no more suicidal ideation. Cutting the sugar and seed oils and adding more fat has made a difference.
PTSD: Can symptoms really last decades?https://www.carenity.us/forum/other-discussions/living-with-behavioural-disorders-mental-illne/ptsd-can-symptoms-really-last-decades-63072025-07-02 16:17:41
Somya.P
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Somya.P
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Last activity on 05/21/2026 at 5:47 PM
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Hi everyone,
A new 20-year study has found that PTSD symptoms can persist or even worsen long after a traumatic event, sometimes lasting decades. The research followed thousands of responders to the 9/11 attacks and found that while many improved over time, others struggled for years, especially those without strong coping tools or social support.
This study is a powerful reminder that trauma doesn’t always follow a neat recovery timeline. For some, symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, or emotional numbness may resurface years later, especially after life changes like retirement, illness, or anniversaries of the event.
👉 If you live with PTSD, how has your experience evolved over time?
👉 Have certain life events made symptoms better or worse?
👉 What helps you feel safe, supported, or grounded when trauma flares up?
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Your story might help someone else feel less alone. ❤️
Take care,
Somya from the Carenity team 🌼