Meditation and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Insufficient evidence – there either hasn’t been any research on this treatment option or there is a small amount of evidence with unclear conclusions.
Meditation involves mind exercises which aim to give you more awareness and understanding of your thoughts and emotions. Meditation aims to help you to manage stress while finding relaxation and inner peace. Some guided meditation practices take place in a group, but free individual guided meditation options also exist online and through mobile phone apps.
There isn’t currently evidence that meditation is helpful for PTSD symptoms, so your professional shouldn’t suggest meditation as your only treatment option.
Meditation is one of several self-care strategies which young people told us help them manage their mental health and wellbeing. Read how other young people find meditation helpful here.
Treatments outlined on these webpages may not be available in every local area. It’s important that you discuss with your GP or mental health professional the treatment options available to you. You can also search for services near you on our Youth Wellbeing Directory and find out more about referral processes here.