Avoiding traumatic experiences is a sure-fire way to prevent PTSD. However, since there is no reliable way to avoid trauma in your life, the best way to prevent PTSD is to deal with a trauma when and if it does occur. A common reaction to experiencing trauma is to bottle it up and not talk about it with anyone. However, the best way to avoid PTSD or limit its effects is to reach out for help. This may mean relying on family and friends for their support or it may mean seeking out a mental health professional for therapy or even for a brief chat. You can also talk with other trusted people in your life such as clergy or a sobriety sponsor. Whoever you chose to talk with, research shows that talking about your experience can help prevent your feelings from spiraling out of control and becoming PTSD.  Getting support may also help prevent you from turning to unhealthy coping methods, such as alcohol or drug abuse.