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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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