Ive heard about something called PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder)—what is it?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is a common problem that can occur following the experience or witnessing of life-threatening events such as military combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), and violent personal assaults like rape. People who suffer from PTSD often relive the experience through nightmares and flashbacks, have difficulty sleeping, feel constantly watchful, wary and “on guard”, and feel emotionally distant or detached from others. These symptoms can be severe enough and last long enough to cause major problems in the person’s daily life. PTSD is marked by biological changes as well as psychological symptoms. PTSD is complicated by the fact that it frequently occurs along with related disorders such as depression, substance abuse, problems with memory and concentration, and other problems of physical and mental health. PTSD is also associated with impairment of the person’s ability to function in soci
