UVA CLINICAL PSYCHIATRY / POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) 1 Addressing Comorbidities in PTSD: An Interdisciplinary Approach Indunil Karunarathna 1 , K Gunawardana 1 , S Rajapaksha 1 , P Aluthge 1 , P Gunasena 1 , U Ekanayake 1 , Kapila De Alvis 1 , S Gunathilake 1 , T Hapuarachchi 1 , Sau Bandara 1 , Asoka Jayawardana 1 , 1. Ministry of Health / Teaching Hospital Badulla / University of Colombo. Abstract: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychiatric condition that arises following exposure to traumatic events. This article provides a comprehensive overview of PTSD, including its diagnosis according to DSM-5-TR criteria, treatment modalities, differential diagnosis, prevention strategies, and the role of interdisciplinary care. Diagnostic evaluation is crucial, with a focus on psychiatric assessments and validated screening tools. Treatment typically involves a combination of trauma-focused psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, tailored to individual patient needs. The importance of interprofessional collaboration in enhancing patient outcomes, through trauma-informed care and effective communication, is emphasized. Additionally, prevention strategies that promote resilience and early intervention are discussed. This holistic approach aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with PTSD, ensuring timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and sustained support. Key Words: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Trauma-focused Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Interdisciplinary Care, Trauma-Informed Care, Mental Health Resilience, Differential Diagnosis, Early Intervention Key Points: Diagnosis of PTSD: Psychiatric evaluation and validated screening tools are essential in diagnosing PTSD, guided by DSM-5-TR criteria. Treatment Approaches: Trauma-focused psychotherapy, including CBT and EMDR, is the preferred treatment, with pharmacotherapy (e.g., SSRIs) as an adjunct, especially in severe cases. Interdisciplinary Care: Effective management of PTSD requires a collaborative approach involving various healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive and patient-centered care. Prevention and Education: Strategies that promote resilience, early screening, and trauma-informed community practices are key to preventing PTSD and mitigating its effects. Holistic Care: Ethical considerations, cultural competence, and effective communication are critical in providing trauma-informed care that respects patient autonomy and improves outcomes. Introduction Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition that develops after exposure to a traumatic event, significantly impacting an individual's cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functions. This disorder is characterized by a wide range of symptoms, including disturbances in cognition, mood, and physical well-being, as well as behavioral changes. The chronic nature of PTSD can lead to severe impairments, increase the risk of comorbid psychiatric conditions, and heighten the likelihood of suicide. PTSD was first recognized as a distinct disorder with its inclusion in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1980. This inclusion underscored the profound effects that traumatic experiences can have on mental health. According to the DSM criteria, PTSD diagnosis involves exposure to a traumatic event followed by symptoms such as intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in mood and cognition, and heightened arousal. The recognition of PTSD in the DSM has been instrumental in advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of trauma-related mental health issues. Managing PTSD is complex due to the individualized nature of trauma and the variability in symptom presentation. Treatment approaches typically include psychological interventions and pharmacotherapy, tailored to address the specific needs of each individual.