Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur after experiencing or witnessing trauma. It is a lasting condition that can deeply impact thoughts, emotions, and sense of safety.
PTSD symptoms include intrusive memories or flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, and avoidance of reminders of the trauma. Symptoms often interfere with sleep, relationships, and daily life.
PTSD can develop after combat exposure, accidents, assaults, natural disasters, or other traumatic experiences. Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD, but factors like severity, lack of support, and previous mental health issues may increase risk.
Evidence-based therapies such as trauma-focused CBT and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are highly effective. Medications may help manage symptoms like anxiety, nightmares, or depression.
Support from peers, family, or veteran/trauma groups is valuable. Relaxation skills, journaling, and grounding techniques also help.
PTSD is treatable. With therapy and support, many people recover, regain safety, and rebuild meaningful lives.