Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event – Either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. 

Most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping, but with time and good self-care, they usually get better. If the symptoms get worse, last for months or even years, and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, you may have PTSD. 

These symptoms cause significant problems in social or work situations and in relationships. They can also interfere with your ability to go about your normal daily tasks. 

PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms can vary over time or vary from person to person. Symptoms may start within one month of a traumatic event, but sometimes symptoms may not appear until years after the event.

Intrusive Memories

• Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event
• Relieving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)
• Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event 
• Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event.

Avoidance

• Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.
• Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event.

Negative changes in thinking and mood

• Negative thoughts about yourself, other people or the world
• Hopelessness about the future
• Memory problems
• Difficulty maintaining close relationships.
• Feeling detached from family and friends
• Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
• Feeling emotionally numb

 Changes in physical and emotional reactions

• Being easily startled or frightened
• Always being on guard for danger
• Self-destructive behavior, such as driving too fast or drinking too much
• Trouble sleeping
• Trouble concentrating
• Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior
• Overwhelming guilt or shame