subject: Recognize the Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder [print this page] Recognize the Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder may be severely debilitating to those suffering with this condition. PTSD can develop anytime an individual experiences an overwhelming, traumatic event. Those who experience, witness or are in any way involved with a catastrophe that is unpredictable or uncontrollable can develop PTSD. Many people associate PTSD with soldiers returning from war, but car accidents, natural disasters, assault, rape or even medical procedures can trigger PTSD.
PTSD develops when people fail to emerge from the psychological shock they experience as the result of an overwhelming experience. It's normal to experience mental and physical shock in reaction to an extremely horrific or frightening event. Most of the time, people are able to process their emotional reactions to what has occurred in time. They 'make sense' of the event and eventually move on to a more normal state of mind.
Those who suffer from PTSD aren't able to cope with the trauma they've experienced. Their feelings about the event remain disconnected from what they remember, and they're unable to move past psychological shock. They have nightmares, feel numb, or can't stop thinking about what happened weeks, months or even years after the catastrophic experience.
The symptoms of PTSD vary widely among individuals. The following are some of the most typically experienced reactions that occur post development of the condition.
Many people re-experience the event that prompted PTSD with upsetting memories, flashbacks and nightmares. They may feel intense physical stress when they are reminded of or think about the catastrophe. Sweating, rapid breathing, nausea and muscle tension are common physical reactions to reliving the event.
Some individuals experience emotional numbing and withdrawal as a result of PTSD. They may lose interest in activities they formerly enjoyed or in life in general. They may also feel very detached from even close friends, family members and other loved ones. Sometimes, they're unable to remember major aspects of the trauma they experienced.
Difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, feeling irritable or easily angered are other common effects of PTSD. Depression, substance abuse and suicidal thoughts may also occur, all of which can have very serious consequences.
Post traumatic stress disorder is a very serious condition, and unfortunately, it usually worsens over time. It often becomes harder to overcome the longer it's left untreated. That's why it's crucial to recognize the signs of the condition and seek the help of your doctor and a qualified therapist.
