Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Experiencing fear during and after a traumatic event is a common response. Fear is a component of the body’s instinctual “fight-or-flight” reaction, aiding in avoiding or responding to perceived threats. Following trauma, individuals may exhibit various reactions, with most recovering from symptoms as time progresses. However, individuals who persistently experience symptoms may receive a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, and may arise from various traumatic experiences such as combat, physical or sexual assault, abuse, accidents, disasters, or terror attacks. Individuals with PTSD may continue to feel stressed or fearful even after the threat has passed. Notably, not all who experience PTSD have directly faced danger; learning of a loved one’s trauma can also trigger the condition. Statistics from the National Center for PTSD indicate that around 6 out of every 100 individuals will encounter PTSD at some point in their lives, with women being more susceptible than men. Certain factors related to the traumatic event and biological factors, such as genetics, may increase the likelihood of developing PTSD in some individuals.

PTSD symptoms typically emerge within three months of a traumatic incident but may appear later. Diagnosis requires symptoms persisting for over a month, significantly disrupting daily functioning, and not being linked to medication, substance use, or other conditions. Recovery varies, with some improving within six months, while others endure symptoms for a year or more. PTSD commonly co-occurs with conditions like depression, substance use, or anxiety disorders. Following a traumatic event, experiencing some symptoms is natural, such as feeling detached. Mental health professionals, like psychiatrists, psychologists, or clinical social workers, assess symptoms to determine PTSD diagnosis.

For an adult to receive a PTSD diagnosis, they must exhibit the following criteria for at least one month:

• At least one re-experiencing symptom
• At least one avoidance symptom
• At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms
• At least two cognitive and mood symptoms

Re-experiencing symptoms may include flashbacks, recurring memories or dreams, distressing thoughts, and physical signs of stress triggered by reminders of the event.

Avoidance symptoms involve avoiding places, events, or thoughts related to the trauma, potentially leading to changes in routine.

Arousal and reactivity symptoms encompass being easily startled, feeling tense or on edge, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, irritability, and engaging in risky behavior. These symptoms are often persistent and can interfere with daily life.

Cognition and mood symptoms consist of trouble recalling key aspects of the event, negative thoughts about oneself or the world, exaggerated feelings of blame, ongoing negative emotions, loss of interest in previous activities, social withdrawal, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions. These symptoms may develop or worsen following the traumatic event and can lead to detachment from others.