What is PTSD? A blog on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

/

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, a physical or sexual assault, combat or military exposure, or any other event that threatens the person's safety or integrity. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.

PTSD develops when the brain's natural response to danger and stress becomes altered, leading to persistent and severe symptoms that can last for months or even years after the traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD can include:

  1. Intrusive thoughts, memories, or nightmares related to the traumatic event

  2. Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)

  3. Avoidance of people, places, or situations that may trigger memories of the event

  4. Negative changes in mood and cognition, such as feeling detached from others, having negative beliefs about oneself, or experiencing difficulty concentrating

  5. Hyperarousal, or a heightened state of anxiety, which can include being easily startled, feeling irritable or angry, having trouble sleeping, or engaging in reckless or self-destructive behaviors

Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event develops PTSD, and the risk factors for developing PTSD can vary from person to person. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing PTSD include:

  1. Experiencing a particularly intense or prolonged trauma

  2. Having a history of mental health problems or substance abuse

  3. Lack of social support

  4. Genetic predisposition to anxiety or depression


If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment for PTSD may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. With proper treatment, many people with PTSD are able to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. If you or a loved one is going through a mental health crisis, kindly call us on 1 (800) 994-5403 or email us at admin@larteywellness.com to schedule an appointment.