Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that may develop after a person is exposed to a traumatic event such as war, a natural disaster, sexual assault, physical abuse, or a serious accident. PTSD can be a disabling condition that can cause people to have difficulty functioning in their daily lives and can lead to serious mental health issues such as depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts.
Some of the common symptoms of PTSD include:
- Reliving the traumatic event through flashbacks and nightmares
- Avoiding things that remind the person of the traumatic event
- Emotional numbness
- Difficulty sleeping/trouble concentrating
- Feeling on edge/irritability/aggression
- Heightened startle response
Treatment for PTSD may include psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy can help the person identify and work through the emotions and memories associated with the traumatic event. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy used to help the person process emotions of anxiety, fear, anger, and guilt and develop skills to cope. Medication, including antidepressants and antianxiety medications, can help reduce symptoms.
It is important to seek help if you are experiencing signs of PTSD and not to try to “tough it out” on your own. With treatment, most people with PTSD can manage their symptoms and live meaningful lives.