Yes. PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is common after cardiac arrest — both in survivors and in co-survivors who witnessed the event or performed CPR.
Survivors may develop PTSD even without remembering the arrest itself. PTSD can develop in relation to the ICU experience, the fear of further cardiac events, distressing memories of what happened in hospital, or the experience of receiving ICD shocks. Symptoms include flashbacks or intrusive thoughts, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance of reminders of the event, emotional numbing, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.
Co-survivors — partners, family members, and friends — are also at significant risk of PTSD following a cardiac arrest. The experience of witnessing a collapse, performing CPR, or facing the possibility of losing someone is profoundly traumatic.
PTSD is a recognised medical condition and is treatable. The most effective treatments include trauma-focused CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing). Both are available through NHS Talking Therapies — speak to your GP for a referral. You do not have to be formally diagnosed with PTSD to access these services; if you are experiencing significant distress, that is reason enough to seek support.
If you are in crisis or feel unable to cope, please contact your GP, call 111, or contact the Samaritans on 116 123.