Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, a series of events, or a set of circumstances. It is characterized by intense, unsettling thoughts and feelings related to the experience that last long after the traumatic event is over. People with PTSD may relive the event through memories or nightmares, feel sadness, fear, or anger, and feel distanced from other people. They may also avoid situations or people that remind them of the traumatic event and have strong negative reactions to something as common as a loud noise or an accidental touch. The severity of the reaction to trauma depends on various factors such as the type and intensity of the event, any relevant previous experience or training, whether the person was active or helpless during the event, the amount of support available after the incident, other current stressors in the person's life, their personality, natural levels of resilience, and any previous traumatic experiences.
It is important to note that two people may have experienced a similar type of trauma but have been affected differently. If your reactions to stress get in the way of your relationships, your work, or other important activities, it is important to seek help from a counselor or doctor. Cognitive processing therapy (CPT), long-term exposure therapy (LTE), and stress inoculation therapy (SIT) are some of the types of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) used to treat PTSD. Caregivers and loved ones can also play an important role in recovery by recognizing post-traumatic stress reactions in time and providing necessary support. Acute stress disorder (ASD) is another reaction to a traumatic event that is similar to PTSD. It is characterized by emotional or behavioral symptoms that are more severe or intense than would reasonably be expected for the type of event that occurred.
Symptoms include fear, anxiety, nerves, disturbing memories, and efforts to avoid reminders. Flashbacks are vivid experiences in which a person relives some aspects of a traumatic event or feels like it is happening right now. Many people who are exposed to a traumatic event experience symptoms similar to those described above in the days after the event. It is important to remember that reactions to trauma will gradually decrease over time in most people. However, if your reactions persist for an extended period of time and interfere with your daily life, it is important to seek help from a professional. With proper treatment and support from family and friends, it is possible to manage post-traumatic stress disorder and lead a healthy life.
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