PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. These events can be life-threatening—such as war, natural disasters, car crashes, or sexual violence—but even non-violent events, like the unexpected death of a loved one, can trigger PTSD.

It’s natural to feel scared or anxious during and after something traumatic. These feelings activate the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which is meant to help protect you. It causes physical changes like increased heart rate, rapid breathing, heightened alertness, and a rush of stress hormones.

CAUSES OF PTSD:

Experts aren't entirely sure why some people develop PTSD while others don’t. It’s believed to be influenced by a mix of genetic makeup, brain chemistry, past experiences, and individual personality or coping skills.

SYMPTOMS OF PTSD:

PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four categories, but each person may experience them differently:

1. Re-experiencing the trauma

You may relive the traumatic event through:

  • Flashbacks that make it feel like it's happening all over again

  • Nightmares

  • Disturbing, intrusive thoughts

2. Avoidance behaviors

You might try to steer clear of anything that reminds you of the trauma by:

  • Avoiding places, people, or activities connected to the event

  • Distracting yourself or staying overly busy to avoid painful memories or emotions

3. Hyperarousal symptoms

These are physical and emotional signs of being constantly on edge, such as:

  • Being easily startled

  • Feeling anxious or tense

  • Trouble falling or staying asleep

  • Sudden bursts of anger or irritability

4. Negative changes in thinking and mood

You might experience:

  • Difficulty recalling key details of the trauma

  • Persistent negative thoughts about yourself or the world

  • Feelings of guilt or shame

  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

  • Trouble focusing or concentrating

    These symptoms can begin shortly after the trauma or may take months or years to emerge. They can also vary in intensity over time.