What are the 17 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Symptoms?
November 6, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences a traumatic event. The symptoms of PTSD can vary from person to person, but they are typically categorized into four clusters. While there are more than 17 possible symptoms, here are 17 common symptoms associated with PTSD:
Re-experiencing Symptoms:
- Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, distressing memories of the traumatic event, which may include flashbacks or nightmares.
- Upsetting Dreams: Nightmares related to the traumatic event can cause distress and sleep disturbances.
- Flashbacks: Feeling as though you are reliving the traumatic event, with a loss of awareness of the present moment.
- Psychological Distress: Intense psychological distress when reminded of the traumatic event or encountering triggers that are associated with it.
Avoidance Symptoms: 5. Avoidance of Triggers: Avoiding people, places, or things that remind you of the traumatic event.
- Emotional Numbing: Feeling emotionally detached, having reduced interest in previously enjoyed activities, and feeling distant from others.
- Loss of Interest: Losing interest in activities, hobbies, or people who were once important.
- Feeling Detached: Feeling emotionally numb and detached from others, leading to social withdrawal.
Hyperarousal Symptoms: 9. Irritability: Easily becoming irritated or angered.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Finding it challenging to focus or remember details.
- Hypervigilance: Being overly alert and watchful for potential threats.
- Exaggerated Startle Response: Easily startled or frightened by sudden noises or movements.
- Trouble Sleeping: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep.
Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition: 14. Negative Thoughts: Persistent, distorted, and negative beliefs about oneself or others.
- Blame or Guilt: Self-blame or guilt related to the traumatic event.
- Memory Impairment: Difficulty remembering key aspects of the traumatic event.
- Feelings of Detachment: A persistent sense of detachment from others, as well as a lack of positive emotions.
It’s important to understand that not everyone with PTSD will experience all of these symptoms. The severity of symptoms can also vary, and they may come and go over time. A formal diagnosis of PTSD should be made by a mental health professional after a comprehensive evaluation. Treatment for PTSD often includes psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy) and, in some cases, medications to address specific symptoms. Early intervention and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for individuals with PTSD.