Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. This could be something like but not limited to:
- Combat or war
- Physical or sexual assault
- Natural disasters
- Serious accidents
- Childhood abuse
- The sudden loss of a loved one
PTSD symptoms generally fall into four main categories:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted memories of the trauma
- Feeling like you’re reliving the event
- Avoidance
- Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind you of the trauma
- Withdrawing from others or refusing to talk about the event
- Negative changes in thinking or mood
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or blame
- Loss of interest in activities or feeling numb or detached
- Trouble remembering key parts of the traumatic event
- Hyperarousal (being on edge)
- Feeling jumpy, easily startled, or constantly alert
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Irritability or angry outbursts
What Causes PTSD?
Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. Risk factors include:
- The severity and duration of the trauma
- Lack of support afterward
- A history of mental illness
- Repeated exposure to trauma
Treatment and Recovery
PTSD is treatable, and many people recover or significantly improve with the right help. Common treatments include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), especially trauma-focused CBT
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- Medication (such as SSRIs for anxiety and depression)
- Support groups or trauma-informed care
PTSD is not a sign of weakness — it’s a response to something deeply distressing. With compassion, proper treatment, and support, people living with PTSD can heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Apps Available in your app store that may be helpful:
