Post traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is an emotional illness that usually happens right after a major traumatic event but can also appear months or years after the event. Though it has most likely been around since the dawn of mankind it was first recorded after the American Civil War, called at the time "soldiers heart". Since then the disorder, generally diagnosed in post-combat soldiers, has been referred to as "shell shock" (WWI) and "battle fatigue" (WWII). It was not until 1980 that is was officially recognized as a psychiatric condition and labeled post traumatic stress disorder. When the symptoms occur during enlistment and are short-lived, the disorder is labeled "combat stress reaction." If it persists to civilian life, it is diagnosed as PTSD. It affects roughly 7-8 percent of Americans however it gets as high as 10 percent or even some believe up to 30 percent in veterans and rape victims. It is also more prevalent in African Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans as opposed to Caucasians.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms - How Do I Know if I Have PTSD?
If you have recently been the victim of a violent crime or possibly witnessed an event that was exceptionally dramatic then it is possible that you have PTSD. Some signs might include withdrawal from your normal daily life, not wanting to associate with friends and family, "flashbacks" about the event, nightmares, trouble sleeping, occupational instability, parenting and or marital problems. It is possible that you may hear or see things that aren’t there, you may feel shame or guilt, and you may develop additional problems such as alcoholism and drug use as well. There are a number of very significant signs that one would develop and one should not have to suffer from PTSD and should seek the help of a health care professional immediately.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms - I Think I Have PTSD, What Do I Do?
Individuals who think they have PTSD should get help immediately. Typically the individual has suffered enough and there is no reason for it to continue. It is typically a mental or emotional disorder and there is treatment for those suffering from PTSD. It will not be a quick fix and will take dedication and the desire to get past it in order to heal oneself. One should also remember that it can come and go and just because one feels good today it does not mean that they are "cured." It is also possible that certain events years down the road could trigger the memory that originally caused PTSD and so it is possible that one may have to deal with PTSD for many years.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms
- It is most common in veterans and victims of rape.
- It is an emotional illness and there is help out there.
- PTSD may not be seen for years after the traumatic event.
