Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition caused by experiencing or seeing a traumatic event. While it is natural to be upset or have trouble sleeping, most people start to feel better after a few weeks or a month or two. People who are still suffering symptoms after a few months should seek treatment. If you think you or a friend may be experiencing the effects of PTSD, find and talk with a mental health professional.
While war or military conflict is a common stressor that can lead to PTSD, not every veteran will develop PTSD. Similarly, not everyone suffering from PTSD is a veteran. Trauma can emerge from many different events, including abuse, violence, sexual assault, accidents, injuries or natural disasters. Adults, teens and children can all go through trauma. In fact, according to studies, as many as 43 percent of children experience trauma during their childhood.
About eight percent of Americans will experience PTSD in their lifetime. Women are twice as likely to develop PTSD, though this may be the result of underreporting, a common problem among men when it comes to mental health. Among children, as many as 15 percent of girls develop PTSD from trauma, and up to six percent of boys.
Trauma affects every person differently. While some are immediately changed by an event, others may not experience effects until years later. This is especially common among young sexual and physical assault survivors. That is why it is important to recognize symptoms, even when the cause is unknown.
With PTSD, there are typically four types of symptoms:
Children may experience some of these symptoms, or they may show PTSD differently. Symptoms among kids may include bed wetting or becoming clingy with a parent or other trusted adult.
When these symptoms last for more than a month or two, or if they are getting worse instead of better, it is time to see a doctor or mental health professional.
PTSD symptoms often take a toll on families and relationships. If you have a family member or friend experiencing PTSD, there are different ways to get help for him or her and for yourself.
Take the time to learn about what PTSD is, how it happens and how it can be treated. If you do not know where to go for help, start with your primary care doctor. There are also several crisis hotlines that are free, available 24 hours a day and can offer advice and direction.
If you are afraid someone is an immediate danger to him or herself or to others, call 911.
The good news is post-traumatic stress is treatable, and treatment often leads to a renewed sense of control, safety, happiness and productivity. Psychotherapy is the main treatment and may also include medications to help with PTSD symptoms. Therapy involves teaching a person with PTSD how to better manage symptoms and how to deal with trauma and its effects.
Treatment may seem daunting, and for some, admitting to mental health issues is difficult. The first step is simply making an appointment and finding the right care professional for you.
Learn about how one woman found success after living with PTSD for 30 years, proving it’s never too late to get the help you need.
Other resources that may help include
June is PTSD Awareness Month. Show your support for those affected by PTSD by wearing a teal ribbon.
not helpfull
Thanks for your comment, Jasmine. We appreciate you taking the time to share your response. We are sorry you did not find the article helpful. If you need more information, please talk with your primary care provider, or reach out to one of the resources mentioned in the article. They should be able to direct you to more helpful information tailored to your specific health needs or concerns. We wish you well.