Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often triggered after a terrifying event that involves physical harm or the threat of physical harm. PTSD is common in victims of assault, individuals who have been to war, or those who witnessed a traumatic experience. Individuals who suffer from PTSD often suffer from recurring nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

Most people who have experienced a traumatic event will have reactions that may include shock, anger, fear, or even guilt. While these feelings are common and go away over time, individuals who suffer from PTSD will experience an increase in these feelings. Individuals with PTSD have symptoms that last longer than one month and have a hard time functioning as they did before the event.

PTSD develops differently for everyone. While it is mostly common for the symptoms of PTSD to appear hours or even days after a traumatic event, it can sometimes take weeks, months, or even years for them to develop.

Individuals who suffer from PTSD may feel scared and helpless. It is important that they feel safe in their surroundings. Keeping PTSD victims away from situations that may trigger a memory is key to their success.

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder:

• Re-experiencing the traumatic event
• Avoiding reminders of the trauma
• Increased anxiety and emotional arousal