Defition
PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat. Symptoms of PTSD, which can begin after the trauma happens or even years later include physical changes, as well cognitive/thought processes and mood.
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent frightening thoughts and memories of ordeal,
- Recurrent sleep problems, feeling detached or numb (especially with peole they were once close to), or be easily startled.
- Sudden or gradual onset of flashbacks—reliving the trauma over and over, including physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating
- Sudden or gradual onset of bad dreams, frightening thoughts
The Facts –
- It affects nearly eight million American adults
- Anyone who was a victim, witnessed or has been exposed to a life-threatening situation
- Survivors of violent acts, including domestic violence, rape, sexual, physical and/or verbal abuse or physical attacks.
- Survivors of unexpected dangerous events, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or terrorist attack.
- Combat veterans or civilians exposed to war.
- People who have learned of or experienced an unexpected and sudden death of a friend or relative.
- Emergency responders who help victims during traumatic events.
Why Screen?
We need to screen for PTSD and other mental illnesses because it allows health care providers to identify these illnesses early on, making treatment more effective.
Latest Research?
Research results from a 2009 independent study, conducted by the University of Connecticut, and commissioned by SMH, found that confidential online screenings, which are highly accessible and non-threatening to users – do help with getting people into treatment. The research showed that 55% of study participants who completed an online depression screening sought treatment within three months of completing the screening.
Treatment?
PTSD can be treated. Treatment and support are critical to recovery. Although memories won’t go away, people can learn how to manage responses to these memories and the feelings they bring up.
Suicide Risk?
Not all depressed people have thoughts of suicide. But all people who are suicidal are usually depressed.. If someone has suicidal thoughts and/or plans for killing themselves, regardless of whether they’re experiencing any of the other symptoms, they should seek immediate help by going to an emergency room, or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255).