What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Understanding the basics
Have you ever felt traumatized after witnessing a certain incident in your life, so much so that it still haunts you? Well, you may be going through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health condition that is triggered by experiencing a terrifying event - where people find it difficult to carry on with their regular activities post the incident.
How can the disorder affect one's life?
PTSD symptoms can negatively impact a person's social, professional, and romantic relationships. You may find regular activities, sounds, or objects terrifying due to the memories associated with them. Even when there is no threat, PTSD patients may experience immense worry or fear. However, the good news is that the intensity of the symptoms can fade away with time and treatment.
What are the major symptoms of PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms can begin as soon as a month after a stressful experience, but they can also take years to occur. Intrusive memories, avoidance, unfavorable changes in thought and attitude, nightmares, severe anxiety, and changes in bodily and emotional reactions are some of the major PTSD symptoms. The severity of symptoms can change over time or from person to person.
Who can get PTSD?
PTSD can strike at any age, in anyone. People who get affected have mostly seen or experienced physical, sexual, or mental abuse, assault, accidents, natural disasters, or other traumatic occurrences. However, not every person with PTSD has experienced a traumatic incident. Occasionally, finding that a friend or member of your family has endured trauma might lead to PTSD as well.
How is PTSD treated?
People experiencing the symptoms often work with a mental health professional who is skilled in treating PTSD. Psychotherapy, drugs, or a mix of both are the basic forms of treatment. Sometimes, treating the associated symptoms such as panic disorder, depression, substance usage, and suicidal thoughts can help in the recovery of PTSD. Support from family or friends is also important for recovery.
