What Is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychological condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Once considered primarily a consequence of military combat, it is now widely recognized as a mental health issue that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background, who has experienced a life-threatening or deeply distressing event. PTSD is characterized by a constellation of symptoms that persist for more than one month after exposure to trauma. These symptoms can severely impair a person’s daily functioning and quality of life.

Common Causes of PTSD

Combat exposure
Sexual or physical assault
Serious accidents (shootings, car crashes)
Natural disasters (fire, hurricane)
Witnessing death or injury
Childhood abuse or neglect

It is important to note that not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. Factors such as genetics, pre-existing mental health conditions, and the availability of social support influence who is most at risk.

Core Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms typically fall into four categories:

Intrusion
- Recurrent, involuntary, and distressing memories
- Nightmares related to the trauma
- Flashbacks or dissociative reactions
- Emotional distress or physiological reactions to trauma reminders
Avoidance
- Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations about the traumatic event
- Avoidance of people, places, or activities that are reminders of the trauma
Negative Alterations in Cognitions and Mood
- Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world
- Distorted blame of self or others
- Persistent fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame
- Emotional numbness or detachment from others
- Inability to experience positive emotions
Alterations in Arousal and Reactivity
- Irritability or aggressive behavior
- Hypervigilance
- Exaggerated startle response
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating

For a formal diagnosis, symptoms must persist for more than a month and cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Complex PTSD vs. PTSD

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is a term increasingly used to describe the psychological effects of prolonged or repeated trauma, especially in interpersonal contexts like childhood abuse or domestic violence. While it shares symptoms with PTSD, C-PTSD often includes additional difficulties in emotional regulation, consciousness (e.g., dissociation), self-perception, and interpersonal relationships. Though not officially listed in the DSM-5, C-PTSD is recognized by the International Classification of Diseases.

A Note From PsychNest

PTSD is a serious mental health condition that deserves compassionate understanding and evidence-based care. With increasing public awareness, advances in neuroscience, and growing access to treatment, there is more hope than ever for those affected by trauma. Healing takes time, but it is absolutely possible—with support, resilience, and the right therapeutic approach.

Don't hesitate to use these resources for you or a loved one:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Text 988 or Call (1-800-273-8255)
National Center for PTSD (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs): www.ptsd.va.gov
PTSD Alliance: www.ptsdalliance.org

Sources

Trauma and stressor-related disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5-TR. 5th ed. American Psychiatric Association; 2022. https://dsm.psychiatryonline.org. Accessed 5/15/2025.
Post-traumatic stress disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd. Accessed 5/15/2025.
What is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd. Accessed 5/15/2025.

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