Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

October 30, 2016

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flash-backs, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

PTSD symptoms may start within three months of a traumatic event, but some-times symptoms may not appear until years after the event. These symptoms cause significant problems in social or work situations and in relationships.

PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four types:

1) Intrusive memories

2) Avoidance

3) Negative changes in thinking and mood

4) Changes in emotional reactions.

INTENSITY OF SYMPTOMS

PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time. You may have more PTSD symptoms when you’re stressed in general, or when you run into reminders of what you went through. For example, you may hear a car backfire and relive combat experiences. Or you may see a report on the news about a sexual assault and feel overcome by memories of your own assault.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

If you have disturbing thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event for more than a month, if they’re severe, or if you feel you’re having trouble getting your life back under control, talk to your health care profession-al. Get treatment as soon as possible to help prevent PTSD symptoms from getting worse.

WHEN TO GET EMERGENCY HELP

If you think you may hurt yourself or know someone who’s in danger of committing suicide call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-TALK (800- 273-8255) to reach a trained counselor. Use that same number and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
LaVella Head, writer

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