What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can affect anyone who has been through a traumatic or frightening experience. Although PTSD can feel overwhelming, the condition is treatable, and recovery is absolutely possible with the right support. In this blog post, we’ll explore what PTSD is, its symptoms, and why it develops.

Overview

PTSD is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Trauma can include events such as violence, abuse, accidents, medical emergencies, natural disasters, or any situation that feels life-threatening. While many people temporarily struggle after trauma, most begin to feel better with time, support, and healthy coping strategies. PTSD occurs when symptoms persist for more than one month, worsen over time, or interfere with daily life, work, relationships, or emotional well-being. PTSD can develop immediately after a traumatic experience or months—sometimes even years—later. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

PTSD symptoms typically fall into four main categories, and they can vary from person to person.

Intrusive Memories

• Unwanted, distressing memories

• Flashbacks that feel like reliving the event

• Nightmares

• Intense emotional or physical reactions to reminders

 Avoidance

• Staying away from people, places, conversations, or activities that bring up trauma

• Avoiding thoughts or feelings connected to the event

Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood

• Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world

• Ongoing fear, guilt, anger, or shame

• Memory issues related to the traumatic event

• Feeling detached from others

• Loss of interest in familiar activities

• Emotional numbness or difficulty feeling happiness

Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions (Arousal Symptoms)

• Irritability or aggressive behavior

• Being easily startled

• Hypervigilance (constantly “on guard”)

• Trouble concentrating or sleeping

• Risky or self-destructive behaviors

When Symptoms Increase

Stress, anniversaries of the trauma, certain sounds, or news stories can intensify symptoms. Many individuals do not recognize the connection at first, which is why professional support can be helpful.

Causes of PTSD

PTSD can stem from any traumatic event, including:

• Serious car accidents

• Physical or sexual assault

• Robbery or violence

• Serious health issues

• Traumatic childbirth

• Witnessing harm to others

While about 1 in 3 people exposed to trauma may develop PTSD, researchers still don’t fully understand why some individuals develop the condition while others don’t. Factors such as early-life trauma, lack of support, repeated traumatic experiences, and genetic or biological vulnerabilities can increase the risk.

Final Thoughts

PTSD is a challenging but treatable condition. With the right support, people can heal from trauma, reconnect with themselves, and build a meaningful life. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or someone you care about, reaching out is a powerful first step. If you have questions or are ready to speak with a professional, Revitalize Psychological Services, PLLC is here to support you.