PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event like war, rape, natural disasters, or accidents. Symptoms include reliving the event through nightmares or flashbacks, feeling stressed and having sleep problems. Cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressants can help patients cope by learning new skills to deal with triggers and negative thoughts. The disorder occurs when the body's fight-or-flight response activates when there is no real danger present. Not everyone who experiences trauma will get PTSD, and having social support acts as a protective factor against its development.

1. Breaking the Stigma Against Mental Illness
Understanding PTSD
Most commonly associated with war veterans, PTSD is a
disorder that can occur after any major traumatic event,
including rape, robbery, earthquakes, or car accidents. A
significant factor in whether or not someone develops
PTSD depends on what social support is available after the
incident, such as family and friends or support groups.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is especially useful for patients
to identify triggers, learn new coping skills, and release
negative feelings about the event in a safe environment.
Antidepressants have also been shown to help with
symptoms.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
occurs when the normal “fight-
or-flight” reaction occurs when
someone is not in danger. This
happens after a terrifying
event occurs that is beyond
the person’s coping ability.
Signs & Symptoms
PTSD can cause someone to
re-experience the event in
nightmares or flashbacks, or
be easily stressed and have
problems sleeping. A person
may avoid a situation that can
trigger a reminder of the
incident, avoid relationships,
and become depressed or
having difficulty with their
memory.
Who gets PTSD?
Not everyone gets PTSD after
a traumatic event. Risk factors
include:
• Living through trauma
• Seeing someone killed
• Lack of social support
• History of mental illness
• Substance abuse
PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder