When can Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder develop?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event that caused intense fear, horror, or helplessness. The event can be life-threatening, such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, or physical or sexual assault, or it can involve the unexpected or violent death of a loved one.

PTSD symptoms can start within the first few weeks after the traumatic event, but they can also develop months or even years later. In some cases, people may experience a delayed onset of PTSD, where symptoms emerge long after the traumatic event has occurred.

The development of PTSD is influenced by various factors, including the severity and nature of the traumatic event, an individual's coping mechanisms and resilience, social support systems, and genetic factors. Certain individuals may be more susceptible to developing PTSD than others, and co-existing mental health conditions or substance use disorders can also impact the likelihood of developing PTSD.