Understanding posttraumatic stress disorder
June is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. Here is what you need to know about the condition.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic or terrifying event in which there was serious physical harm or threat.
Such events may include a natural disaster, a serious accident, the unexpected death of a loved one, war, a terrorist act, abuse, war/combat, rape, or those who have been threatened with death, sexual violence, or serious injury.
In the past, PTSD was called shell shock, combat fatigue or battle fatigue syndrome.
Although it is normal for people who have witnessed a traumatic event to experience shock, anger, nervousness, fear, and even guilt, these feelings last longer for people suffering from PTSD. The condition also affects how they function moving forward.
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Some people might have flashbacks, hallucinations, and nightmares, difficulties sleeping or loss of interest in things they used to like. There might also have difficulties showing affection.
Trauma survivors may also feel great distress when certain things bring back memories of the traumatic event. The person may also avoid people, places, thoughts, or situations that are likely to remind them of trauma. They might also avoid talking about what happened or how they feel about it.
Symptoms of this disorder include rapid breathing, high blood pressure, nausea, and diarrhea, negative cognitions and mood.
Psychiatry organisation states that people suffering from PTSD might also become:
- Irritable.
- Have angry outbursts.
- Behaving recklessly or in a self-destructive way.
- Be watchful of one's surroundings in a suspecting way.
- Be easily startled.
- Having problems concentrating or sleeping.
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WebMd states that young children with PTSD may have delayed development in areas such as toilet training, motor skills, and language.
What’s interesting to note is that PTSD might not occur immediately after the traumatic event. According to WebMd, some people might start to experience symptoms within three months but it could kick in years after the event for others.
Recovery might take six months or more, depending on the individual.
A psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health professional will help treat individuals who are suffering from PTSD.
Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.
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