Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops after being exposed to traumatic events. An individual may have taken part in the traumatic event, been injured in the event, or just witness to the event. There are many symptoms that those with PTSD deal with and these symptoms include reliving the event in various ways, and one of those ways is nightmares.

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PTSD can develop right after the traumatic event or months later. No matter when PTSD surfaces, the symptoms are the same, though the severity of the symptoms varies from individual to individual, and the number of symptoms may vary. The reasons for developing PTSD are not clear, not all survivors of trauma develop this disorder, and no single type of event ensures the development of PTSD.

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Although no specific event causes PTSD, there are events that carry more risk for developing this disorder combat, natural and human-made disasters and sexual abuse all have the potential to trigger PTSD. Any event or situation that threatens life or produces a loss of life has the potential for triggering PTSD.

 

Only a psychiatrist can diagnose PTSD; there are effective treatments for PTSD once all the symptoms are studied, and a diagnosis is made. Those who have Post-traumatic stress disorder may exhibit all or some of the following symptoms:

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• Reliving the traumatic event

  • Flashbacks

  • Nightmares

  • Bad memories resurfacing

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• Avoidance

  • Avoiding situations, people, and places that trigger memories of the traumatic event

  • Avoid speaking or thinking about the traumatic event

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• A negative change in belief, thoughts, and feelings

  • A negative change in how the individual views themselves and others

  • Loss of interest in hobbies and activities once enjoyed

  • Feelings of distrust

  • Feelings of impending doom

  • Inability to feel happy

  • Feeling numb to emotions

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• Hyperarousal

  • Hyper-vigilant

  • Anxious

  • Jittery and defensive

  • Easy to startle

  • Easy to anger

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