It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear is a part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which helps us avoid or respond to potential danger. People may experience a range of reactions after trauma, and most people recover from initial symptoms over time. Those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with PTSD.
About 6.8% of American adults develop PTSD in their lifetime, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. PTSD can occur at any age, including childhood. Women are more likely to develop the disorder than men, and there is some evidence that it may run in families. PTSD is frequently accompanied by depression, substance use disorder, and anxiety disorders. When other conditions are appropriately diagnosed and treated, the likelihood of successful treatment increases.
Signs and symptoms
- Flashbacks—reliving the traumatic event, including physical symptoms, such as a racing heart or sweating
- Recurring memories or dreams related to the event
- Distressing thoughts
- Physical signs of stress, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, fatigue, muscle tension, nausea, joint pain, headaches, back pain, and other types of pain
Thoughts and feelings can trigger these symptoms, as can words, objects, or situations that are reminders of the event.
- Staying away from places, events, or objects that are reminders of the experience
- Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the traumatic event
Avoidance symptoms may cause people to change their routines. For example, some people may avoid driving or riding in a car after a serious car accident.
- Easily startled
- Tense, on guard, or on edge
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Irritable
- Angry or aggressive outbursts
- Risky, reckless, or destructive behavior
Arousal symptoms are often constant. They can lead to feelings of stress and anger and may interfere with daily life, such as sleeping, eating, or concentrating.
- Trouble remembering key features of the traumatic event
- Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
- Exaggerated feelings of blame toward oneself or others
- Ongoing negative emotions, such as fear, anger, guilt, or shame
- Loss of interest in previous activities
- Feelings of social isolation
- Difficulty feeling positive emotions, such as happiness or satisfaction
Cognition and mood symptoms can begin or worsen after the traumatic event. They can lead people to feel detached from friends or family members.
Types
When to see a doctor
It is important for anyone with PTSD symptoms to work with a licensed mental health professional who has experience treating PTSD to receive a diagnosis. The main treatments are psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of psychotherapy and medications. A mental health professional can help people find the best treatment plan for their symptoms and needs.
Some people with PTSD, such as those in abusive relationships, may be living through ongoing trauma. In these cases, treatment is usually most effective when it addresses both the traumatic situation and the symptoms of PTSD. People who experience traumatic events or who have PTSD also may experience panic disorder, depression, substance use, or suicidal thoughts. Treatment for these conditions can help with recovery after trauma. Research shows that support from family and friends also can be an important part of recovery.