Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
is a psychological, emotional disorder that develops in people who have
been exposed to some sort of severe mental or physical trauma. Although
it wasn’t officially named until 1980, it was observed as early as the
Civil War in soldiers who fought in combat. In the past PTSD has been
referred to as soldier’s heart, battle fatigue, Vietnam Vet Syndrome,
and shell-shock, but you do not have to have served in a battle to
develop this condition.
Rape victims, those who have suffered physical or sexual abuse, victims
of violent crime, and people who have been in accidents or other
life-threatening situations may suffer with PTSD, many for their entire
lifetime. It is estimated that in the United States alone about 5
million people suffer from this disorder. Women are twice as likely to
have PTSD as men, and it is also more prevalent in ethnic groups,
including African-American, Hispanic and Native American populations. Up
to 100% of children who have been the victims of sexual abuse or seen a
parent killed have PTSD.
Antidepressants, especially serotonergic antidepressants (SSRIs), can
help ease much of the emotional and physical symptoms associated with
PTSD. Medications that help people get to sleep can also be effective in
calming the PTSD patient’s constant state of fight-or-flight mindset,
or hyperarousal. However, without psychotherapy to help those with PTSD
cope with their feelings of helplessness and anger, medication will not
be enough to conquer this illness.
PTSD can cause panic attacks, insomnia, night terrors, impulsive anger, lack of concentration, memory problems, feelings of depression
or worthlessness, paranoia, and suicidal tendencies. It can be
especially difficult for those with PTSD to socialize or feel connected
in any way to others, and many isolate themselves both physically and
emotionally in an attempt to avoid any place or situation that could
remind them of a traumatic experience. People with PTSD are also far
more likely to turn to substance abuse to help block out negative
feelings and memories.
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