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What is PTSD?

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a mental health condition that some people develop after they experience or witness a traumatic event.?The traumatic event may be life-threatening or pose a significant threat to your physical, emotional or spiritual well-being. PTSD affects people of all ages.

People with PTSD have intense and intrusive thoughts and feelings related to the experience that last long after the event.?PTSD involves stress responses like:
Anxiety, depressed mood, or feelings of guilt or shame.
Having flashbacks or nightmares.
Avoiding situations, places and activities related to the traumatic event.
These symptoms cause distress and interfere with your daily functioning.

What is a traumatic event?

Trauma or a traumatic event is anything that severely threatens your existence or sense of safety. It doesn’t have to be a single event (like a car accident) — it can be long-term trauma like living through war or frequent abuse. Trauma also doesn’t have to happen directly to you — you could witness a traumatic event. In addition, you could develop PTSD after learning that?a traumatic event happened to?a loved one.

Examples of traumatic events include (but aren’t limited to):
Serious accidents, like a car accident.
Severe injury or sudden illness.
War and military combat.
Natural disasters, such as a tornado, earthquake, fire or flood.
Physical abuse.
Verbal abuse.
Sexual assault or abuse.
Bullying.
The sudden death of a loved one.
ptsd treatment
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is the main treatment for PTSD, especially forms of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

This therapy takes place with a trained, licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide support, education and guidance to you and/or your loved ones to help you function better and increase your well-being.