Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
By: Erin F.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the development of symptoms following the exposure of a traumatic event. It is developed due to any kind of extreme stress.It is usually caused by an experience threatened or actual death or serious injury, witnessing a stressful event,or learning of an unexpected or violent death or injury to a close family member or friend.It can also be caused by natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or or military combat.
Signs and Symptoms of PTSD
- Reliving the traumatic event-having nightmares, flashbacks, or disturbing mental images about the trauma
- Avoiding reminders of the trauma- avoiding people, places, or activities that remind them of the event
- Emotional numbness
- Hypervigilnace
- Anxiety
- Panic
- Depression
How It Affects Someone
People who have PTSD will be more aware of their surroundings. They may go into hyper-alert state or have trouble sleeping. They can become very jumpy, on edge, irritable, or tense.
How Is PTSD Diagnosed
PTSD can be diagnosed by
- Psychiatrist
- Psychologist
- Or other types of therapists
How PTSD Is Treated
PTSD is treated by going to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or any other mental health professional.