Post-traumatic stress disorder develops after a person experiences a difficult event. It can happen after one or more traumatic incidents. PTSD changes the way the brain functions and often requires trauma treatment.
Symptoms of PTSD include:
- Intrusive memories of the traumatic event or events.
- Flashing back to the traumatic event.
- Nightmares or trouble sleeping.
- A negative emotional response to sensory experiences that remind you of the event.
- Avoiding places or experiences that remind you of the event.
- Isolation or difficulty having relationships.
- Depression, anxiety, numbness, or hopelessness.
- Problems with memory.
- Feeling jumpy or always on guard.
- Guilt or shame.
- Irritability or aggressive behavior.
- Self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse or risky sex.