by Tracy Thomas

Created on: May 27, 2008   Last Updated: May 28, 2008

What Is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is an anxiety disorder that is the result of exposure to a traumatic experience that involved direct physical harm or the threat of physical harm. PTSD can be triggered not only by harm occurring to oneself but by witnessing a traumatic event that occurred to a loved one or even a stranger.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can result from a variety of traumas including childhood abuse, rape, torture, automobile accidents, military combat, natural disasters and kidnapping.

Identifying Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

Individuals who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder most commonly develop symptoms within three months of the traumatic event but sometimes symptoms are delayed and do not emerge until years later. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of PTSD:

- Experience flashbacks of the traumatic event (images, sounds, smells, feelings)
- Suffer from disturbed sleep patterns or insomnia
- Become easily startled
- Irritable
- Loss of intimacy or withdrawal from loved ones
- Emotional numbness
- Exhibit aggressive or violent behavior
- Avoidance of certain places or people related to the trauma
- Lack of trust
- Feelings of guilt or shame

Not every person who experiences a traumatic event develops Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Though it affects around 7.7 million American adults, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can also occur in children, especially those who have suffered some form of child abuse. If you think you or a loved one has PTSD it is important to talk to your family doctor or a mental health professional for an official diagnosis. If you are a member of the Armed Services, you can contact your local VA Hospital.

Common Treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

PTSD can become a chronic problem affecting every aspect of a person's life including family relationships, friendships and careers but it can be treated successfully by a variety of therapies and medications. Here is a list of the common treatments used for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive Therapy and Exposure Therapy
- Medication : Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Group and Family Therapy
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can last for a few months or may stretch out to a couple of years if you have other mental health issues along with PTSD. In addition to these common therapies, many individuals can benefit from joining online forums tailored to those who are experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. There are also groups available to support the families of loved ones who are affected.

Common Resources for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

There are many resources available for those who are touched by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Here are some of the most common:

National Center for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder part of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs website
http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/index.jsp

PTSD Sanctuary provides trauma education, treatment, books, community and support
http://www.mhsanctuary.com/ptsd/

Mental Health Today a list of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder books
http://www.mental-health-today.com/ptsd/books/p tsdbooks.htm

PTSD Forum an online community aimed at PTSD sufferers and their families.
http://www.ptsdforum.org/forum4.html

A Gift From Within offers support for those affected by PTSD and their families.
http://www.giftfromwithin.org/

Sidran Institute provides traumatic stress education and advocacy.
http://www.sidran.org/index.cfm

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