What is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)?
Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety condition which can occur following a traumatic incident. There are many traumatic events which can result in PTSD, although not everyone will develop short term symptoms after a traumatic event. 1 in 3 individuals who have persistent, continued symptoms will be diagnosed as suffering from PTSD.
What causes PTSD?
There are many events which could be a cause of PTSD although everyone responds differently to life stressors. Some events which have led to PTSD include:
Symptoms of PTSD?
Symptoms of PTSD usually present immediately after the traumatic event but can be delayed by weeks, months and even years. There are four main symptoms of PTSD:
- Avoidance – distancing yourself from things, places, and people which may remind you of the trauma
- Re-experiencing – flashbacks and nightmares during which you relive the emotional and physical sensations
- Hypervigilance – being unable to relax and having difficulties sleeping
- Physical – physical symptoms such as headaches, sweating, chest pain and upset stomach
