3 Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that occurs after exposure to a terrifying event. It causes people to relive the event in their mind over and over again.
You have trouble sleeping.
If you suffer from insomnia, you might find yourself waking up at night and having difficulty falling back asleep. This is called “sleep maintenance insomnia.” Sleep maintenance insomnia happens when you wake up during the middle of the night and struggle to fall back asleep.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Insomnia is defined as waking up three times or more per night. However, if you wake up multiple times throughout the night and still cannot fall back asleep, then you should see a doctor.
You have feelings of guilt or shame.
There are several different types of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One type involves reexperiencing the trauma through flashbacks or nightmares. Another type involves avoidance of reminders of the trauma. A third type involves hyperarousal symptoms such as increased startle response, irritability, anger, and aggression.
PTSD is often triggered by something that happened long ago, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, some people who suffer from PTSD were abused as children. If you feel guilty or ashamed because of what happened to you, talk to a counselor.
You have difficulty concentrating.
If you notice these signs, it’s important to seek help because untreated PTSD can lead to other serious medical issues.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, irritability, and emotional numbing. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 8 percent of adults suffer from PTSD at some point in their lives.
Mag. Jochen Auer