PTSD
When the past refuses to stay in the past.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. People with PTSD have intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their experience that last long after the traumatic event has ended.
Key Symptoms
- ◆Intrusive memories and flashbacks
- ◆Nightmares about the traumatic event
- ◆Severe emotional distress when reminded of trauma
- ◆Avoiding trauma-related thoughts or places
- ◆Negative changes in thinking and mood
- ◆Hypervigilance and being easily startled
- ◆Emotional numbness
- ◆Self-destructive behavior
Common Causes
- ◆Combat exposure
- ◆Childhood abuse or neglect
- ◆Sexual or physical assault
- ◆Accidents or natural disasters
- ◆Witnessing violence or death
- ◆Serious medical diagnosis
Treatment Options
- ◆Trauma-focused CBT
- ◆EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- ◆Prolonged Exposure therapy
- ◆Medication (SSRIs, prazosin for nightmares)
- ◆Support groups for trauma survivors
Key Facts
About 70% of adults experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime.
20% of those who experience trauma develop PTSD.
PTSD can develop at any age, including childhood.
Veterans are at significantly higher risk of PTSD.