Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as an accident, natural disaster, assault, or combat. PTSD is a response to intense fear, helplessness, or horror associated with the trauma, and it can disrupt a person's sense of safety and stability. While not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, those who do may struggle with the impact of the event for months or even years. PTSD treatment often involves therapy and, in some cases, medication to help individuals process and manage their responses to trauma.
People can experience PTSD following a stressful event that they perceive to be traumatic. Below are some examples of what this may be:
PTSD can develop right after a traumatic event or much later, even years after. It's estimated that 1 in 3 people will experience PTSD, though it's unclear why some do and others don’t. When in danger, the body goes into "fight or flight" mode, releasing hormones like adrenaline to help you escape. People with PTSD continue to release these hormones even when there is no danger. While some manage their symptoms, others may develop complex PTSD and need additional support.
Forms of treatment
The main treatment for PTSD is psychological interventions and there are many types, depending on the nature of your trauma and symptoms. You may also be offered medication to help with your mood.
