PTSD
PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, often develops after a triggering event. The event can either be experienced or witnessed. After the event takes place, one may experience flashbacks, severe anxiety, and nightmares. One may also have uncontrollable thoughts about the triggering event. While traumatic events can cause difficulty with adjusting and coping, many people usually get better. Yet, if symptoms continue for months or years, worsen, or interfere with one’s day-to-day life, that is often a sign of PTSD. Symptoms may not start right after the event and can appear years later. This can result in a variety of issues in personal relationships and interrupt the flow of daily life. Treatment that includes medication and psychotherapy can help reduce symptoms of PTSD and allow you to live a full and functional life.
Common signs and symptoms of PTSD include:
Need to avoid thinking of or talking about the event
Avoiding people, places, or anything related to the event
Reoccurring disturbing thoughts of the event
Flashbacks that involve reliving the event
Nightmares and upsetting dreams about the event
Hypervigilance and always being on guard or defensive
Memory problems including false memories of the event
Easily startled and triggered
Always being on guard or defensive
Self-destructive behavior such as excessive drinking or drug use
Trouble sleeping and/or concentrating
Outbursts of aggressive behavior
Excessive feelings of guilt or shame
Inability to experience pleasure or positive feelings