Trauma/PTSD
It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear is a part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which helps us avoid or respond to potential danger. People may experience a range of reactions after trauma, and most people recover from initial symptoms over time. Those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with PTSD. which often causes symptoms such as avoidance, intrusive thoughts, and flashbacks.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that people sometimes develop in response to a traumatic event. PTSD has been known by many names in the past, such as “shell shock” or “combat fatigue” but PTSD does not just happen to combat veterans. it can occur in all people, of any ethnicity, nationality, or culture.
People with PTSD have intense and often disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their experience long after the traumatic event occurred. They may relive the event through flashbacks or nightmares, they may feel sadness, fear or anger, and may feel detached or estranged from other people. This can lead to avoiding situations or people that remind them of the event, or to having strong negative reactions to something as ordinary as being touched.
It is natural after a dangerous event to have some symptoms or to feel detached from the experience. A health care provider—such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker—who has experience helping people with traumatic events can determine whether your symptoms meet the criteria for PTSD.
Causes – post-traumatic stress disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after a very stressful, frightening or distressing event, or after a prolonged traumatic experience.
Types of events that can lead to PTSD include:
- serious accidents
- physical or sexual assault
- abuse, including childhood or domestic abuse
- exposure to traumatic events at work, including remote exposure
- serious health problems, such as being admitted to intensive care
- childbirth experiences, such as losing a baby
- the death of someone close to you
- war and conflict
- torture
PTSD develops in about 1 in 3 people who experience severe trauma.
How is PTSD treated?
It is important for anyone with PTSD symptoms 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. A mental health professional can help people find the best treatment plan for their symptoms and needs.
Some people with PTSD, such as those in abusive relationships, may be living through ongoing trauma. In these cases, treatment is usually most effective when it addresses both the traumatic situation and the symptoms of PTSD. People who experience traumatic events or who have PTSD also may experience panic disorder, depression, substance use, or suicidal thoughts. Treatment for these conditions can help with recovery after trauma. Research shows that support from family and friends also can be an important part of recovery.
Complex PTSD – Post-traumatic stress disorder
You may have complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if you have some of the symptoms of PTSD, and also have problems with managing your emotions and having relationships.
Symptoms of complex PTSD
The symptoms of complex PTSD are similar to symptoms of PTSD, but may also include:
- feelings of worthlessness, shame and guilt
- problems controlling your emotions
- finding it hard to feel connected with other people
- relationship problems, like having trouble keeping friends and partners
Causes of complex PTSD
Complex PTSD may be caused by experiencing recurring or long-term traumatic events, for example:
- childhood abuse or neglect
- domestic violence
- sexual abuse
- torture, sex trafficking, or slavery
- war
You may also be more likely to develop complex PTSD if:
you experienced trauma at a young age
you were harmed by someone close to you who you trusted
you were unable to escape the trauma