Intense psychological distress, marked by horrifying memories, recurring fears, and feelings of helplessness that develop after a psychologically traumatic event, such as the experience of combat, criminal assault, life-threatening accidents, natural disasters, or rape. The symptoms of PTSD may include re-experiencing the traumatic event (a phenomenon called “flashback”); avoiding stimuli associated with the trauma; memory disturbances; psychological or social withdrawal; or increased aggressiveness, irritability, insomnia, startle responses, and vigilance. The symptoms may last for years after the event, but often can be managed with supportive psychotherapy or medications such as antidepressants.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that manifests in individuals who have survived intense environmental stressors, such as a tornado, an airplane crash, or military combat. Common symptoms include anxiety, sleep disturbances, recurrent distressing memories, and vivid nightmares. Those with PTSD often exhibit heightened vigilance, may grapple with survivor guilt, and struggle with difficulties in concentration and experiencing positive emotions.
A type of anxiety that emerges following a distressing or alarming incident. Frequently encountered triggers encompass natural disasters, acts of violence, sexual assault, torture, severe physical harm, and participation in military combat.
Symptoms might manifest either immediately after the incident or be delayed, emerging many months or even years later. These indicators encompass flashbacks (repeated memories or dreams of the event), a feeling of personal detachment, disruptions in sleep and focus, and potentially a numbing of emotions. Irritability, guilt, and escalating into depression could also arise. Exposure to any reminders of the traumatic event can exacerbate these symptoms.
Given time, the majority of individuals tend to recover with the aid of emotional support and counseling. Yet, enduring physical and emotional trauma over an extended period (as seen in situations like concentration camps) can potentially leave lifelong psychological scars, leading to lasting changes in one’s personality.