EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH
PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD, is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as war, physical abuse, sexual assault, a bad accident, or natural disaster.
Need immediate help?
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else — or if there’s any type of health emergency — please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
How PTSD might show up
PTSD can develop for anyone at any time—there’s no specific timeline. Research has shown that PTSD commonly affects combat veterans, survivors of assault or abuse, people who have been in accidents or natural disasters, and individuals who have lost loved ones in sudden or tragic circumstances or experienced a medical emergency themselves.
While some people may face higher risks of developing PTSD than others, there is no one factor that determines who will develop the condition and how long symptoms might last.
PTSD can cause flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and other symptoms that interfere with daily life, including difficulty sleeping, concentrating, and working. PTSD can also lead to social isolation and relationship problems.
Treatment for PTSD can significantly reduce symptoms and help people living with post-traumatic stress disorder live full, productive lives. Those treatments include therapy, medication management, and a combination of both that can be offered in both residential and outpatient settings.
Therapy can help people with PTSD understand their symptoms, develop coping mechanisms, and process the trauma they experienced. Medication can also be helpful in managing some of the PTSD symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.
Need immediate help?
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else — or if there’s any type of health emergency — please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently asked questions about PTSD
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Not all trauma leads to PTSD. Severity of the trauma, as well as a person’s individual coping skills and strengths and how strong their support system may factor into the development of PTSD.
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If you know a friend or loved one who might be struggling with PTSD, encourage them to talk about what they’re experiencing and help them by listening carefully, patiently, and without judgement. You can help them practice coping skills if they already have them and encourage them to talk to their doctor or reach out to a mental health professional for treatment.