2. What is Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Summary
1.PTSD develops in some people after they experience or witness an event that
threatens their life or safety, or that of others around them.
2.Symptoms include vivid memories, feeling constantly on edge and avoiding reminders
of the event.
3.It is common for people to have some of the symptoms of PTSD in the first few days
after the traumatic event. Most will recover by themselves or with the support of family
and friends. Others may need professional help.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a set of reactions that can develop in people
who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event that threatens their life or safety
(or others around them). This could be a car or other serious accident, physical or
sexual assault, war-related events or torture, or a natural disaster such as bushfire or
flood.
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3. While everyone experiences PTSD differently, there
are four main types of symptoms.
Re-experiencing the traumatic event through intrusive memories, flashbacks,
nightmares, or intense mental or physical reactions when reminded of the trauma.
Avoidance and numbing, such as avoiding anything that reminds you of the trauma,
being unable to remember aspects of the ordeal, a loss of interest in activities and life in
general, feeling emotionally numb and detached from others and a sense of a limited
future.
Hyperarousal, including sleep problems, irritability, hypervigilance (on constant “red
alert”), feeling jumpy or easily startled, angry outbursts, and aggressive, self-destructive,
or reckless behavior.
Negative thought and mood changes like feeling alienated and alone, difficulty
concentrating or remembering, depression and hopelessness, feeling mistrust and
betrayal, and feeling guilt, shame, or self-blame.
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4. When to seek help for PTSD
don’t feel any better after two weeks
feel highly anxious or distressed
have reactions to the traumatic event that are interfering with home, work and/or
relationships
are thinking of harming themselves or someone else.
being constantly on edge or irritable
having difficulty performing tasks at home or at work
being unable to respond emotionally to others
being unusually busy to avoid issues
using alcohol, drugs or gambling to cope
having severe sleeping difficulties.
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5. PTSD symptoms in
children
Fear of
being
separated
from their
parent.
Losing
previously-
acquired
skills (such
as toilet
training).
Sleep
problems
and
nightmares
.
Somber,
compulsive
play in which
themes or
aspects of the
trauma are
repeated.
New phobias
and anxieties
that seem
unrelated to the
trauma (such
as fear of
monsters)..
Acting out
the trauma
through
play, stories,
or drawings.
Aches
and pains
with no
apparent
cause.
Irritability
and
aggression.
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6. Positive
ways of
coping with
PTSD:
Learn about
trauma and
PTSD
Join a PTSD
support
group.
Practice
relaxation
techniques.
Spend time
with positive
people.
Confide in a
person you
trust.
Avoid
alcohol and
drugs.
Enjoy the
peace of
nature.
Pursue
outdoor
activities.
Positive ways
of
coping with PTSD:
Syed Abul Farah
