What Is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition or anxiety disorder that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic or terrifying event. Traumatic or terrifying events are life-threatening situations that cause feelings of intense fear, horror, or helplessness, such as:

- Wars or military combat

- Physical or sexual assault or abuse

- Serious accidents

- Natural disasters

- Learning of the unexpected, severe injury, or death of a loved one

Symptoms of PTSD can develop soon after the traumatic event, or they may not appear until months or even years later. In some cases, PTSD may be triggered by a future event or situation that reminds the person of the original trauma.

Symptoms of PTSD can include:

- Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the traumatic event

- Nightmares or sleep disturbances

- Difficulty concentrating or paying attention

- Feeling on edge or easily startled

- Irritability or anger outbursts

- Feeling disconnected or numb from others

- Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind the person of the trauma

- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

- Physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach problems, or dizziness

Treatment for PTSD may include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or exposure therapy, and/or medication. With the right treatment, most people with PTSD can improve their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.