Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD is a debilitating condition that may develop following a terrifying event. It is characterized by persistent frightening thoughts and memories of the ordeal. The condition was first brought to public attention by war veterans, but it may result from any number of traumatic incidents or even from witnessing a traumatic incident. The symptoms of PTSD may interfere with a person’s ability to work or socialize.
What is a Traumatic Event?
Traumatic events include:
- child abuse and domestic abuse
- violent attacks, such as rape, mugging, or torture
- threats of violence or verbal abuse, such as bullying
- disasters, both natural and human-caused
- being kidnapped or held captive
- accidents
- military combat
These events or situations are terrifying to those involved. The person’s life or the life of someone close to that person may be threatened. A person may also experience trauma after witnessing a traumatic event, such as a bombed building or a plane crash.
What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?
A person with PTSD may have any of the following symptoms:
- recurrent and upsetting memories about the trauma
- flashbacks, feelings of reliving the traumatic event
- nightmares about the trauma
- avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event, including places, people, activities, thoughts, feelings, and conversations
- difficulty remembering important aspects of the trauma
- difficulty concentrating
- irritability or angry outbursts
- difficulty sleeping
- being easily startled
- feelings of emotional numbness
- less interest in usual activities
- guilt about others who were hurt or died during the trauma
- feelings of distance from other people or inability to show affection and love
If you have one or even a few of these symptoms, you do not necessarily have PTSD. Not everyone who experiences a trauma will develop PTSD. Among those who do develop PTSD, symptoms vary in severity and impact.
Generally, a diagnosis of PTSD is made if the symptoms last for more than one month. Only a qualified professional can make the diagnosis, so it’s important to talk to your health care provider if you are concerned about any of these symptoms. Symptoms of PTSD usually begin within three months of the traumatic event.
Severe post-traumatic stress disorder may lead to difficulties working or socializing. People with PTSD often also have depression, substance abuse problems, and/or other anxiety disorders.
If you are wondering whether or not you have the symptoms of PTSD, please take the PTSD Screening Test.
Who Has PTSD?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), post-traumatic stress disorder affects society in the following ways:
- About 5.2 million American adults have PTSD.
- More women than men have PTSD.
- PTSD may occur at any age, including childhood.
- Risk for PTSD may run in families.
How is PTSD Treated?
Therapy and medication are the two most common treatments for PTSD. People who have experienced a traumatic event are encouraged to talk to a professional following the event as it may prevent PTSD from developing. If PTSD does develop, the severity and length of the condition will vary from person to person. As with other anxiety disorders, early treatment is important. Additionally, other conditions may develop with PTSD, including depression, substance abuse, sleep disorders and other anxiety disorders. All symptoms should be discussed with a qualified health or mental health professional to determine the best course of treatment.
