What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, can be defined as a psychiatric disorder that may occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. This is also known as a mental health condition where symptoms can include: 

- intense feelings of distress when reminded of a tragic event 

- flashbacks 

- loss of interest in life and daily activities 

- invasive, upsetting memories of a tragedy 

Numerous individuals that experience traumatic events can have a hard time adjusting or coping. However, if symptoms continue to worsen and interfere with day-to-day functioning, individuals may have PTSD. PTSD symptoms are usually categorized into four types of groups: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms can also change over time and vary depending on the person. 

As of now, doctors are not fully sure as to why certain individuals develop PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder can be developed when individuals go through, see or learn about an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation. 

The intensity of PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time. Therefore, if individuals are having disturbing thoughts and feelings regarding a traumatic event for over a month, it is important to talk to a doctor or a mental health professional to get treatment as soon as possible in order to prevent symptoms from getting worse. 

If you have any questions or want to speak to a specialist, give our office a call at (714) 867-7037 for more help and information.