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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It’s characterized by persistent and distressing symptoms that interfere with daily life, including re-experiencing the event through nightmares or flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in mood and thinking, and increased arousal.

1. Re-experiencing the Trauma

Flashbacks (feeling like it’s happening again)

Nightmares or bad dreams

Intrusive thoughts about the trauma

Strong emotional or physical reactions to reminders (sights, smells, sounds)

2. Avoidance

Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind them of the trauma

Trying not to think or talk about it

3. Negative Changes in Thoughts or Mood

Feeling numb, empty, or disconnected

Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed

Guilt, shame, or blame (often misplaced)

Trouble remembering parts of the trauma

Feeling hopeless or detached from others

4. Increased Arousal or Reactivity

Easily startled or jumpy

Angry outbursts or irritability

Sleep problems

Difficulty concentrating

Feeling “on edge” all the time