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Recognizing PTSD
Post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD) is one of the most debilitating anxiety disorders that can
occur after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical
harm was threatened or occurred. Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD
include violent personal assaults such as rape or mugging, natural or
manmade disasters, car accidents, or military combat.
Most people with PTSD try to avoid any reminders or thoughts of the ordeal.
Despite this avoidant behavior, many people with PTSD repeatedly
re-experience the ordeal in the form of flashback episodes, memories,
nightmares, or frightening thoughts, especially when they are exposed to
events or objects reminiscent of the trauma. Symptoms of PTSD also include
emotional numbness and sleep disturbances (including insomnia), depression,
and irritability or outbursts of anger. Feelings of intense guilt are also
common. PTSD is diagnosed only if these symptoms last more than one month.
Fortunately, through research supported by the National Institute of Mental
Health (NIMH), effective treatments have been developed to help people with
PTSD.
How Common Is PTSD?
About 4% of the population will experience symptoms of PTSD in a given year.
When Does PTSD Strike?
PTSD can develop at any age, including childhood. Symptoms of PTSD typically
begin within 3 months following a traumatic event, although occasionally
symptoms do not begin until years later. Once PTSD develops, the duration of
the illness varies. Some people recover within 6 months while others may
suffer much longer.
What Anxiety Disorders Treatments Are Available for PTSD?
Treatment for PTSD includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, group
psychotherapy, and medications (including antidepressants). Various forms of
exposure therapy (such as systemic desensitization and imaginable flooding)
have all been used with PTSD patients. Exposure treatment for PTSD involves
repeated reliving of the trauma, under controlled conditions, with the aim
of facilitating the processing of the trauma.
Can People with PTSD Also Have Other Physical or Emotional Illnesses?
People with PTSD can also have other psychological difficulties,
particularly depression, substance abuse, or another anxiety disorders. The
likelihood of treatment success is increased when these other conditions are
appropriately diagnosed and treated, as well.
*Source: The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
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