Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

12. February 2024

PTSD is a psychiatric disorder or a mental health condition that’s triggered and developed by a traumatic event after a person has experienced or witnessed a serious mental or physical harm and threat. Such event includes sexual assaults, death or losing someone you love or care deeply, physical injury, domestic violence, child abuse, brain chemistry, warfare or any other threats on a person’s life.

Symptoms

  • Intrusive Thoughts and Memories: Individuals with PTSD often experience recurrent, distressing memories of the traumatic event. These memories can intrude into daily life, causing significant distress.

  • Flashbacks: Flashbacks involve the reliving of the traumatic event as if it were occurring again. This can be triggered by various stimuli and can be incredibly overwhelming for those affected.

  • Avoidance: People with PTSD may avoid places, people, or activities that remind them of the traumatic event. This avoidance can extend to discussions about the event or any related topics.

  • Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: PTSD can lead to persistent negative thoughts about oneself or others. Individuals may experience mood swings, feelings of guilt or shame, and a decreased interest in activities they once enjoyed.

  • Hyperarousal: Those with PTSD may become easily startled, irritable, or have difficulty sleeping. This heightened state of arousal is a common symptom and can significantly impact daily functioning.

Symptoms of PTSD most often start within one to three months of a traumatic event. The appearance of the symptoms or severity and duration of the illness can vary. It cause significant problems in social or work situation and even in relationship.

Also many people experienced symptoms like fear, nervousness, guilt, anger, nightmares, flashback, hallucination, blame, estrangement, avoiding and withdrawal from social activities. Symptoms may occur more when a person is stress in general or when come across reminders of what went through.

Conclusion

Many people who experienced terrifying events do not develop PTSD while some may have temporary traumatic symptoms which usually get better with time and self-care. But if the symptoms last longer than usual or even get worst and interfere with daily activities, difficulty adjusting and functioning you may have Post-traumatic stress disorder.

People who are more likely to develop PTSD after traumatic event are those who have a history of mental health problems, blood relatives with mental illness or have a history of alcohol or drug abuse.

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