What is PTSD
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, series of events or set of circumstances. An individual may experience this as emotionally or physically harmful or life-threatening and may affect mental, physical, social, and/or spiritual well-being. Examples include natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat, rape/sexual assault, historical trauma, intimate partner violence and bullying,
Your experience
Experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event can stir a complex mix of emotions – shock, horror, fear, and helplessness. For those grappling with PTSD, this can manifest in various ways, from haunting nightmares that replay the trauma to distressing flashbacks that blur the line between past and present. It might lead to a constant sense of being on edge, difficulty focusing, and a barrage of physical symptoms like headaches or stomach pains.
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In the aftermath, you might find yourself altering your behavior, aiming to avoid anything resembling the traumatic incident. Feelings of depression and anxiety may loom, alongside the struggles of sleeplessness and concentration. You might feel emotionally numb, detached from those around you, and a profound sense of isolation. It's not uncommon to put on a brave face, assuring everyone that you're "fine" and the trauma left no mark, but deep down, you're aware that the impact runs much deeper. It can be disorienting, leaving you uncertain about how to navigate a world suddenly turned upside down.
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These challenges might seep into various aspects of life, affecting relationships, work, and more. It's essential to recognize that PTSD is a genuine condition, regardless of the severity of the triggering event. It's a valid struggle, deserving of understanding, support, and professional guidance.