Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a reaction to exposure to very stressful and traumatising events. It is a potentially severe and long-term mental health problem that can hamper your ability to live your life to the full. Here are 10 Signs You Have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Causes
PTSD occurs in response to exposure to a very stressful or traumatic event or an exceptionally shocking, threatening or catastrophic situation. Examples include rape, violent attack, traumatic accidents, sudden destruction of your house or community, or threat or harm to you or to your close relatives or friends.
Signs & Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- re-experiencing the event in nightmares or flashbacks
- avoiding things or places associated with the event
- panic attacks
- sleep disturbance
- poor concentration
- depression
- emotional numbing
- drug or alcohol misuse
- anger.
Treatment
The most effective approach for long-term severe PTSD is talking treatments with a clinical psychologist. The person is encouraged to talk through their experience in detail. Medicine may be prescribed to relieve the depression.
