Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

When individuals personally experience or witness traumatic events, especially those that pose a threat to life, it can trigger intense fear and lead to severe, persistent stress symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia. For most people, these symptoms will subside in a short period, and not everyone who experiences trauma will develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, if these symptoms last for more than a month and affect daily functioning, a diagnosis of PTSD may be made.
 

Causes:

• Traumatic Events: Directly experiencing or witnessing extreme traumatic events is the primary cause of PTSD.
• Biological Factors: Certain individuals may be more susceptible to PTSD due to genetic or neurochemical factors.
• Psychological Factors: Pre-existing mental health conditions or personality traits, such as high anxiety or emotional instability, can increase the risk.
• Social Support: A lack of social support or facing significant life stressors may exacerbate the development of PTSD.
   

Symptoms:

• Re-experiencing: Recurrent thoughts about the traumatic event, flashbacks, or nightmares.
• Avoidance: Avoiding situations, people, or activities related to the traumatic event.
• Negative Mood Changes: Persistent negative emotions, such as anxiety, anger, shame, or fear.
• Increased Arousal: Being easily startled, having difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating, or heightened alertness.
   

Treatment Methods:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are commonly used therapies.
• Medication: Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be used to alleviate PTSD symptoms.