Once thought to plague mostly Vietnam veterans after heavy combat experience, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is more common than once believed, affecting individuals of any age. PTSD is a debilitating condition that can follow the witness, experience or participation of a terrifying and traumatic event, particularly after a life-threatening event.

While any life-threatening event is likely to cause all of us anxiety, a formal diagnosis of PTSD is given only if the symptoms persist more than one month. Symptoms are likely to appear within the first 3 months after the trauma, although there can be a delay before symptoms begin and the severity of the symptoms can range from mild to severe. The severity, duration, and proximity of an individual’s exposure to the traumatic event are the most important factors in determining whether PTSD is likely to develop.

Treatment for PTSD can help individuals regain a sense of control over their lives. It will involve confronting the traumatic event and learning to accept the trauma as part of your past. Doing so can drastically improve your hopes for the future.

If you feel that any of these symptoms describe how you are feeling, we urge you to seek professional help. Even if your symptoms are not indicative of full-blown Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, the fact that you are experiencing some of these symptoms is indicative that you are most likely distressed.

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