Trauma & PTSD
What is Trauma & PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Trauma is defined as an event that is outside the range of usual human experience and causes significant distress and disruption.
Causes of PTSD
PTSD can be caused by a wide range of traumatic events, including:
- Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, hurricanes)
- Accidents (e.g., car accidents, plane crashes)
- War and combat
- Sexual assault or abuse
- Witnessing violence
- Serious illness or death of a loved one
Symptoms of PTSD
The symptoms of PTSD can vary widely and may include:
- Intrusive memories (e.g., flashbacks, nightmares)
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma (e.g., people, places, activities)
- Negative changes in mood and cognition (e.g., guilt, shame, difficulty concentrating)
- Hyperarousal (e.g., increased anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping)
Diagnosis and Treatment
To be diagnosed with PTSD, a person must meet certain criteria, including:
- Exposure to a traumatic event
- Persistent symptoms that last for more than one month
- Significant distress or impairment in daily functioning
Treatment for PTSD typically involves a combination of therapies, such as:
- Psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
- Medication (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications)
- Support groups