Overview

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can be triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Symptoms of PTSD may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts related to the traumatic event.

While most people experience temporary difficulty adjusting and coping after traumatic events, PTSD may develop if symptoms worsen, persist for months or even years, and interfere with daily functioning.

Symptoms

PTSD symptoms can appear within one month of the traumatic event, but they may also surface years later. The symptoms are grouped into four types:

Intrusive memories

• Recurrent distressing memories of the event
• Flashbacks, reliving the traumatic event
• Upsetting dreams or nightmares related to the event
• Severe emotional distress or physical reactions triggered by reminders of the event

Avoidance

• Trying to avoid thoughts or discussions about the traumatic event
• Avoiding places, activities, or people associated with the trauma

Negative changes in thinking and mood

• Negative thoughts about oneself, others, or the world
• Feelings of hopelessness about the future
• Memory problems related to the traumatic event
• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Feeling detached from family and friends
• Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
• Feeling emotionally numb

Changes in physical and emotional reactions

• Easily startled or frightened
• Constantly on guard for danger
• Engaging in self-destructive behavior, like excessive drinking or reckless driving
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior
• Overwhelming guilt or shame

For children 6 years old and younger, symptoms may include re-enacting the traumatic event through play or having frightening dreams related to the event.

Intensity of Symptoms

PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time, often becoming worse when exposed to stress or reminders of the trauma.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience disturbing thoughts and feelings related to a traumatic event for more than a month, if they are severe, or if they disrupt your daily life, seek help from a doctor or a mental health professional. Early treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening.

Causes

PTSD can develop after experiencing, witnessing, or learning about an event involving death, serious injury, or sexual violation. The exact cause of PTSD is not known but is likely influenced by a combination of factors, including stressful experiences, inherited mental health risks, personality traits, and the way the brain regulates chemicals and hormones in response to stress.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing PTSD after a traumatic event, including experiencing intense or prolonged trauma, previous exposure to trauma (such as childhood abuse), certain occupations (e.g., military personnel, first responders), other mental health issues (anxiety, depression), substance misuse, lack of a support system, and a family history of mental health problems.

Kinds of Traumatic Events

Various traumatic events, such as combat exposure, childhood physical abuse, sexual violence, physical assault, accidents, and more, can lead to the development of PTSD.

Complications

Untreated PTSD can significantly disrupt a person's life, affecting relationships, work, health, and overall well-being. It may also increase the risk of other mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, issues with substance use, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts or actions.

Prevention

Not everyone exposed to trauma develops long-term PTSD. Seeking timely help and support after a traumatic event, turning to family, friends, or mental health professionals, and avoiding unhealthy coping methods can help prevent PTSD from developing.