Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that some people develop after experiencing a dangerous, shocking, or terrifying event. Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms include:

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• Avoidance — staying away from places or events that remind you of the traumatic experience or avoiding thoughts and feelings related to the traumatic event

• Changes in physical and emotional reactions — getting more easily startled, difficulty sleeping, sudden sadness, or angry outbursts

• Changes in mood and cognition — trouble remembering the event and feeling guilt or blame

• Re-experiencing — flashbacks, bad dreams, night terrors, or intrusive thoughts

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The development of PTSD varies from person to person. Trauma can be induced by a variety of traumas varying from car crashes and domestic abuse to the death of a loved one. Some will experience symptoms beginning immediately after a traumatic event, and others won’t experience symptoms until years later. Just as with any mental illness, recovery time and processes vary by individual as well.

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Treatment for PTSD

The most common PTSD treatments include medication and psychotherapy. Antidepressants are commonly used as PTSD medication, but talk therapy, (psychotherapy), is also a frequently effective treatment for PTSD because it can help patients recognize their triggers.

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