Post traumatic stress disorder is preventable. However, it is hard to say exactly how this might be achieved. Put simply; it would mean the avoidance of the sort of traumatic events that might cause PTSD to occur. Therefore, avoiding high-risk situations would be a good idea, but, there again, there is no knowing when an individual might fall foul of an abusive situation or from crime. Indeed, it is impossible to completely rule out the potential for nasty accidents or deaths in childbirth from occurring. However, it is possible to seek peaceful and negotiated settlements instead of inflicting the trauma of war on populations. Furthermore, it should be possible to prevent certain crimes, thereby lessening the likelihood that PTSD will occur. After a shocking event, seeking counselling at an early stage can be a good way of helping to deal with it rather than waiting for a disorder to potentially develop.