What are some of the consequences associated with PTSD?
PTSD is associated with a number of distinctive neurobiological and physiological (bodily) changes. PTSD may be associated with stable neurobiological alterations in both the central and autonomic nervous systems, such as altered brainwave activity, decreased volume of the brain’s hippocampus, and abnormal activation of the amygdala (a structure in the brain). Both the hippocampus and the amygdala are involved in the processing and integration of memory. The amygdala has also been found to be involved in coordinating the body’s fear response. Psychophysiological alterations associated with PTSD include hyper-arousal of the sympathetic nervous system, increased sensitivity of the startle reflex, and sleep abnormalities. Problems with the thyroid and other hormonal systems are also common. PTSD also significantly impacts psychosocial functioning. For instance, Vietnam veterans with PTSD were found to have profound and pervasive problems in their daily lives. These included problems in fa
