Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after experiencing an event that’s so shocking, scary or dangerous, their mind is unable to process it. Examples include natural disasters, accidents, sexual assault, violence, war and abuse. Untreated PTSD can interfere with a person’s ability to fully function.

Learn

It’s natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation, but these reactions generally fade over time. Those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with PTSD. Learn more below.

5 TYPES OF PTSD

Psych2Go walks through different types of PTSD in this seven-minute video.

TRAUMA’S IMPACT ON THE BRAIN

Dr. John Rigg explains how trauma impacts our brain and behaviors in this Tedx Talk.

DIG DEEPER

This article from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMS) explores PTSD and offers resources to learn more and find support.

Signs and Symptoms

Here are some common signs of PTSD that may require support and treatment. Remember, the earlier you’re diagnosed and start treatment, the sooner you can start feeling better and get back to your life.

  • RE-EXPERIENCING

    Having flashbacks, bad dreams or frightening thoughts. Re-experiencing symptoms can interfere with daily routines and can be triggered by thoughts or words, situations or objects that are a reminder of the traumatic event.

  • AVOIDANCE

    Staying away from places, events, people or objects that are reminders of a traumatic experience. Trying to avoid thoughts and feelings related to the trauma, for example numbing with drugs or alcohol.

  • AROUSAL

    Being easily startled or continually feeling tense or reactive, difficulty sleeping and angry outbursts are all examples of arousal symptoms that can interfere with daily tasks.

  • COGNITION & MOOD

    Inability to remember aspects of the traumatic event, negative thoughts about oneself, distorted feelings like guilt or blame, or a loss of interest in activities or social situations that were once enjoyed.

Act

PTSD can make a person feel like they’ve lost control over their own thoughts, actions and reactions to situations. It’s important to not hold these feelings inside or struggle in silence. Talking to someone about how you’re feeling is a powerful first step.

BREATHE

Trying to figure out how to deal with emotional struggles while we’re actually experiencing them can be challenging. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a minute to breathe, move, meditate or even make a gratitude list to help manage those feelings. Headspace offers a range of free videos to help.

TALK ABOUT IT

Too many people struggle with PTSD in silence because they’re afraid of what people will think or that they’ll look weak. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. PTSD is a treatable medical condition, so there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Lean on your support network, and talk about how you’re feeling (trust us, it helps).

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Our mental and physical health are intertwined, so it’s important to pay attention to both. Not getting enough sleep or the right nutrition can trigger or worsen symptoms of PTSD. It’s okay to step back and take some time for yourself while you’re also reaching out for help and taking actions to feel better.

GET HELP

Symptoms of PTSD typically don’t go away on their own, and when unaddressed, they can negatively impact work, school, relationships and overall wellness. Don’t wait until things get worse. Reach out for help from a professional. You can find resources below or visit our help-seeking page (link) to learn more.

Get Support

These resources can help you find professional support online, on the phone or in person. And if you or a friend are having thoughts of suicide, reach out immediately for a free, confidential chat with a trained counselor anytime. 

When contacting a resource below, any information you provide will be collected and used by that resource, subject to its end user terms and conditions and privacy policy. Please contact the applicable resource if you would like more information.
Resource Type Contact
Crisis Text Line Text Line Text ACTION to 741741
Lifeline Call Line 988
Trans Lifeline Call Line 877-565-8860
The Trevor Project Website Visit website
ADAA Therapist Search Website Visit website
BetterHelp Website Visit website
Talkspace Website Visit website