Being involved in a traumatic event can be a harrowing experience. Such situations can elicit a range of reactions, some of which may linger for quite some time. When that occurs, people may be experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.
What is PTSD?
The American Psychiatric Association characterizes PTSD as a psychiatric condition that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event or series of such events, which are viewed by the individual as emotionally or physically harmful or life-threatening. The APA notes that symptoms must last for more than a month and cause significant distress or problems with a person’s ability to function each day in order to be diagnosed as PTSD.
Can anyone develop PTSD after a traumatic event?
Yes. The APA notes PTSD is not exclusive to any particular ethnicity, nationality, culture, or age group. However, the APA also points out that most individuals who experience traumatic events do not go on to develop PTSD.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
The National Institutes of Mental Health reports that symptoms of PTSD are broken down into four categories:
• Re-experiencing symptoms: Flashbacks in which the event is relived, including its physical symptoms; recurring memories or dreams related to the event; distressing thoughts; and physical signs of stress are considered re-experiencing symptoms.
• Avoidance symptoms: These symptoms may cause people to change their routines, such as avoiding being in a car after a traffic accident. Avoidance symptoms include staying away from places, events or objects that remind individuals of their traumatic experience. Symptoms also may involve avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the event.
• Arousal and reactivity symptoms: The NIMH notes these symptoms are often constant and can lead to feelings of stress and anger that interfere with daily activities like sleeping, eating or concentrating. Being easily startled; feeling tense or on edge; irritability and angry or aggressive outbursts; and engaging in risky, reckless or destructive behaviors are some examples of arousal and reactivity symptoms.
• Cognition and mood symptoms: These symptoms can cause people to feel detached from loved ones. People experiencing cognition and mood symptoms may have negative thoughts about themselves or the world; ongoing negative emotions, including fear, guilt or shame; feelings of social isolation; and difficulty feeling positive emotions like happiness.
Can PTSD be treated?
Yes. The APA lists cognitive behavioral therapy and medication among the options doctors may consider to help people overcome their PTSD. More information about PTSD treatment can be found at psychiatry. org.
PTSD does not affect most people who experience a traumatic event. But the APA urges individuals who develop PTSD to recognize they are not to blame and that treatment is available and effective.
