POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop in both adults and children after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults such as rape or mugging, natural disasters, accidents, terrorist attacks, and military combat. Families of trauma survivors or victims can also develop the disorder.

PTSD can be extremely disabling. Many people with PTSD repeatedly re-experience the ordeal in the form of flashback episodes, memories, nightmares, or frightening thoughts, especially when they are exposed to events or objects reminiscent of the trauma. Other PTSD symptoms include emotional numbness, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, and irritability or outbursts of anger. Feelings of intense guilt are also common. Most people with PTSD try to avoid any reminders or thoughts of the ordeal. PTSD is diagnosed when symptoms last more than 1 month.

Fortunately, effective treatments have been developed to help people with PTSD. Scientists are attempting to determine which treatments work best for which types of trauma. Researchers are also seeking a better understanding of PTSD and how it affects the brain and the rest of the body.

More information on PTSD