Ever encountered a shocking or dangerous situation that keeps replaying negatively in your mind with an aftereffect of fear? Once a safe place, the world suddenly becomes a place where evil triumphs, causing one to question their safety. This experience is characteristic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that may develop after experiencing traumatic events. The condition that was first recognized in war veterans had different names in the past, such as ‘shell shock’, but currently several events can lead people to PTSD.
The majority of survivors of traumatic situations may experience short-term difficulties adjusting and coping, but they often recover with time and appropriate self-care. However, you might have PTSD if the symptoms worsen, last for several months or even years, and affect your ability to operate daily.
PTSD symptoms can be classified as delayed-onset PTSD, which emerges over six months after experiencing trauma.
Complex PTSD occurs after early or prolonged trauma. Birth trauma develops after a traumatic experience of childbirth.
Secondary trauma can occur when experiencing PTSD symptoms while supporting someone who had trauma.
PTSD affects roughly six out of every 100 individuals with genetics, and traumatic incidents as the main factors in the development of PTSD.
It’s crucial to remember that you are not alone in experiencing PTSD. Misconceptions about PTSD often suggest that it is a weakness, but it is not a choice or weakness. Anyone with PTSD symptoms needs to work with a mental health professional who has experience treating PTSD. The main treatments are psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of psychotherapy and medications. The professional can help find the best treatment plan based on individual symptoms and needs.
