Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Key points
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety problem.
- Whether you'll develop PTSD may depend partly on how severe and intense the trauma was and how long it lasted.
- You can have symptoms right after the trauma or they can develop months, or even years, later.
- Your doctor can diagnose PTSD by talking with you about your symptoms and experiences.
What is post-traumatic stress disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety problem. It can develop after your life is threatened, or after you experience or see a traumatic event. Usually, the event makes you feel very afraid or helpless. Some examples of traumatic events are a natural disaster, rape or a severe car crash.
Who develops PTSD?
Whether you'll develop PTSD may depend partly on how severe and intense the trauma was and how long it lasted. People who have anxiety, depression or other mental disorders are more likely to develop PTSD. People who have been victims of previous trauma are also at greater risk.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
You can have symptoms right after the trauma or they can develop months, or even years, later. Symptoms of PTSD fall into 3 groups: reliving the trauma, trying to stop thinking about the trauma and anything related to it, and feeling "on edge." Your symptoms may include:
- Having flashbacks, nightmares, bad memories or hallucinations
- Trying not to think about the trauma or staying away from people who remind you of it
- Not being able to recall parts of the event
- Feeling emotionally numb or detached from others
- Having trouble sleeping
- Being irritable, angry or jumpy
People with PTSD are often depressed. Sometimes they try to feel better by using alcohol or drugs. This can cause abuse or addiction problems.
How is PTSD diagnosed?
Your doctor can diagnose PTSD by talking with you about your symptoms and experiences.
How is PTSD treated?
There are many treatments available. Medicines for depression or anxiety may be helpful. Talking to a mental health professional and your friends and family about the event and your feelings can also help. PTSD can cause depression and substance abuse. These problems should be treated before or during PTSD treatment.
How long does PTSD last?
PTSD can be treated successfully. However, without treatment, it can last several months to many years, depending on the type of traumatic event and your feelings about it.
What can I do to help myself recover?
- Check your local phone directory for support groups in your area.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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