Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as combat, a natural disaster, physical or sexual assault, or other threats to life or safety. People with PTSD may relive the event through flashbacks, memories, or nightmares. They may feel sad, afraid, or angry. They may feel detached or estranged from other people. PTSD can cause significant impairment in daily life and relationships.
The Bible does not directly address PTSD, since it is a modern diagnosis. However, the Bible has much to say about trauma, fear, anxiety, and healing that can provide comfort and hope to those suffering from PTSD.
God understands trauma and suffering
The Bible teaches that suffering is part of the human condition in a fallen world (Genesis 3). Many biblical characters endured terrible trauma, from persecution, violence, loss of loved ones, and more. God sees and understands the pain of trauma, and promises to be near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). Jesus knows what it is to suffer trauma, having endured persecution, betrayal, torture, and a painful death. He identifies with human pain and trauma in a personal way (Isaiah 53:3; Hebrews 4:15).
Freedom from fear
Fear and anxiety are common symptoms of PTSD. The Bible encourages those who are suffering not to be consumed by fear. Jesus frequently told people “Do not be afraid,” assuring them of God’s constant presence and protection (Luke 12:32). God promises to free people from fear if they turn to Him (Psalm 34:4). His perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Clinging to God’s word can help stop the cycle of fearful thoughts (Psalm 119:165).
Healing and restoration
The Bible contains many stories of God healing people from emotional and psychological wounds, not just physical ones. Jesus healed “every disease and every affliction” during his ministry on Earth (Matthew 4:23). God promises to heal the brokenhearted, comfort all who mourn, provide strength to the weary, and give peace to the anxious (Psalm 147:3; Matthew 5:4; Isaiah 40:29; Philippians 4:7). While healing may not be immediate, God can work good even from the trauma if people open their wounds to Him (Romans 8:28).
Overcoming traumatic memories
Many who have endured trauma struggle with recurrent memories or flashbacks. The Bible says God can quiet fearful minds, help override traumatic memories, and refocus thoughts on positive things (Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:8). Replacing lies that can take root after trauma with God’s truth is an important key to healing (John 8:32). As people fill their minds with Scripture, traumatic memories will have less room to dominate.
Controlling reactions
PTSD often leads to increased startle responses, irritability, and reactive behavior. The Bible teaches strategies to help trauma survivors gain control over these reactions. Relaxation techniques like meditation on Scripture can calm the mind (Joshua 1:8). Patience, kindness, and self-control can override irritation (Galatians 5:22-23). Taking thoughts captive and making them obedient to Christ prevents destructive behaviors (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Overcoming isolation
Many trauma survivors isolate themselves out of fear, shame, or feeling disconnected. God created people for community, and isolation often exacerbates trauma reactions. The Bible prescribes fellowship for healing emotional wounds (Galatians 6:2). It also provides the model of the church body coming together to “bear one another’s burdens” during trials (Romans 12:15). Seeking and giving support and comfort within a community of believers can help counteract isolation.
Finding meaning and purpose
Survivors of trauma often struggle with questions of meaning and purpose after tragic events. The Bible teaches that God has good plans to give people a hope and a future, despite trauma and suffering (Jeremiah 29:11). Jesus promises that He is working even in the darkest circumstances to redeem pain and use it for purposes beyond human understanding (John 9:1-3). He invites those who endure trauma to share in His suffering in order to also share His comfort and find their purpose in Him (2 Corinthians 1:3-5).
Letting go of anger and vengeance
Anger and bitterness sometimes take root after trauma. God understands anger, but cautions against letting it rule us or lead to sin (Psalm 4:4, Ephesians 4:26). The Bible encourages letting go of vengeance and leaving it in God’s hands, freeing people from the binding chains of bitterness (Romans 12:19). Forgiving others is a key part of healing emotionally, even if the offender does not deserve forgiveness or ask for it (Matthew 6:14-15).
Coping through lament
The Bible gives permission for honest lament in the midst of suffering. Trauma survivors need space to grieve all that was lost without judgment. Many psalms model raw, uncensored prayers to God about pain and confusion (Psalm 13:1-2). Jesus openly lamented on the cross, expressing agony and feeling abandoned, yet still trusting God (Matthew 27:46). Bringing laments to God often helps make sense of trauma.
Trusting God’s sovereignty
Trauma often results in feeling life is out of control. The Bible provides comfort in God’s sovereignty, reassuring that He ultimately has power over suffering. Believers can be confident that nothing can separate them from God’s love, and all things work for their good according to His purposes (Romans 8:28, 38-39). They can rely on God’s strength to help them endure trials (2 Corinthians 12:9). His plan will prevail over evil, working even through suffering toward resurrection and redemption (Romans 8:18; Revelation 21:4-5).
Hope and healing in Christ
The Bible points those who have endured trauma to Jesus Christ as the source of ultimate hope and complete healing. It is Christ who bears people’s griefs and carries their sorrows (Isaiah 53:4). His covenant of grace promises forgiveness, restoration, and eternal life even after the most horrific suffering. While trauma leaves wounds that may not fully heal in this lifetime, the Bible promises that one day God Himself will wipe away every tear and make all things new (Revelation 21:4-5). His powerful resurrection ensures that death and trauma will never have the final word. This hope can sustain trauma survivors through even the darkest valley (Psalm 23:4).
The Bible acknowledges that trauma has devastating impacts, but also points to the healing love of God in Christ. For the Christian, God redeems trauma by using it for good purposes that can be discovered through ongoing relationship with Him. By drawing near to God, trauma survivors can find comfort, hope, freedom from fear, community support, and strength to rebuild their lives. The Scripture provides a wealth of resources to help guide the journey toward wholeness.