Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder results from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic physical or emotional event, especially if the event was life threatening. PTSD was first recognised when war veterans experienced the same symptoms. However, other terrifying events can also cause the same symptoms. These include rape, kidnapping, natural disasters, physical or sexual abuse during childhood, serious accidents such as plane crashes and witnessing another person's serious injury.

Sufferers of PTSD often endure frequent nightmares, flashbacks and disturbing memories and feel emotionally numb. Extreme measures are taken to avoid being in any situation that even reminds them of the traumatic experience. Many people become detached, experience sleep problems and feel aggressive. Research suggests PTSD can occur at any age, even during childhood.

PTSD does not affect everyone who experiences a traumatic experience, but if symptoms last for over a month then the diagnoses is often made. Other anxiety disorders that often accompany Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder are depression, alcohol or drug abuse or any of the other anxiety disorders

Symptoms:

Reliving the event

Nightmares

Trouble sleeping

Feeling detatched or numb

Exaggerated startle reactions

Irritability

Aggression

Avoidance of situations or places that bring back traumatic memories

Persistant anxiety

Causes

Medical Help and Treatment

Further Info & Advice

CBT: An effective treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Adapted by John Clark)

Treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Symptoms

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