POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop in some individuals who have endured a traumatic, frightening, or life-threatening event.
It is entirely normal to experience fear during and after such an event. Fear is an integral part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which prepares us to either confront or evade potential threats. Individuals may exhibit a variety of reactions following trauma, and most recover from initial symptoms over time. However, those who continue to face challenges may receive a diagnosis of PTSD.
Anyone can develop PTSD at any age. This includes combat veterans and individuals who have experienced or witnessed physical or sexual assaults, abuse, accidents, disasters, or other serious incidents. Those with PTSD may feel anxious or fearful even when they are not in immediate danger.
It is important to note that not everyone with PTSD has directly experienced a traumatic event. Sometimes, merely learning about the trauma endured by a friend or family member can trigger PTSD.
According to the National Center for PTSD, a program of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately six out of every 100 individuals will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Women are at a higher risk of developing PTSD compared to men. Certain characteristics of the traumatic event, along with various biological factors such as genetics, may increase an individual's susceptibility to PTSD.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms may emerge within the first three months following a traumatic event; however, in some cases, they may not become apparent until years later. These symptoms typically persist for more than a month and can significantly impair social interactions, workplace performance, and overall relationships. They may also hinder your ability to carry out daily tasks.
PTSD symptoms are generally categorized into four main types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and alterations in physical and emotional responses. Symptoms can fluctuate over time and may differ from person to person.
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INTRUSIVE MEMORIES
Symptoms related to intrusive memories can include:
- Recurrent, distressing memories of the traumatic event.
- Reliving the traumatic experience as if it is happening again, often referred to as flashbacks.
- Disturbing dreams or nightmares concerning the traumatic event.
- Intense emotional distress or physical reactions triggered by reminders of the traumatic experience.
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AVOIDANCE
Symptoms of avoidance may involve:
- Attempts to avoid thinking or discussing the traumatic event.
- Steering clear of places, activities, or individuals that evoke memories of the traumatic experience.
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NEGATIVE CHANGES IN THINKING AND MOOD
Symptoms signaling negative changes in thinking and mood can include:
- Pervasive negative thoughts about yourself, others, or the world at large.
- Continuous negative emotions such as fear, blame, guilt, anger, or shame.
- Memory issues, including difficulty recalling significant details of the traumatic event.
- Feelings of detachment from family and friends.
- A lack of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
- Emotional numbing.
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CHANGES IN PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL REACTIONS
Symptoms indicative of changes in physical and emotional responses, also known as arousal symptoms, may include:
- An exaggerated startle response.
- A heightened sense of vigilance for potential danger.
- Engaging in self-destructive behaviors, such as excessive drinking or reckless driving.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Irritability, frequent angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior.
- Physical reactions like sweating, rapid breathing, an accelerated heartbeat, or tremors.
For children aged six years and younger, symptoms may also manifest as:
- Reenacting the event or aspects of it through play.
- Nightmares, which may or may not incorporate elements of the traumatic experience.