what is ptsd

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, series of events, or set of circumstances. PTSD is a mental health condition thats triggered by a terrifying event, either experiencing it or witnessing it. Anyone can develop PTSD at any age, including combat veterans, people who have experienced or witnessed physical or sexual assault, abuse, an accident, a disaster, a terror attack, or other serious events. Symptoms of PTSD may include flashbacks, nightmares, intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to the experience, feelings of sadness, fear, anger, or detachment from other people, and strong negative reactions to something as ordinary as a loud noise or an accidental touch. A diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an upsetting traumatic event, which includes directly experiencing an event, witnessing a traumatic event happening to others, or learning that a traumatic event happened to a close family member or friend. The course of the disorder varies, and some people recover within 6 months, while others have symptoms that last for 1 year or longer. People with PTSD often have co-occurring conditions, such as depression, substance use, or one or more anxiety disorders. If you know someone who may be experiencing PTSD, the most important thing you can do is to help them get professional support.