Daily Archives: November 20, 2006

A look at Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Reports are on the rise of more cases of an anxiety disorder known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). More and more Veterans are experiencing it when arriving back home. This post is to help make others aware of the symptoms and treatments. It is by no means a substitute for seeing your physician. If you think you could be experiencing it, talk to your Doctor.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is not new. It’s been around for quite a while. It used to be referred to as Shell shock or combat fatigue among other things. Often times PTSD is associated with war veterans. If you’re a war veteran that may be suffering from it, you will find some valuable information from the Vietnam Veterans of America. Another excellent source of information for war veterans afflicted with PTSD is available from the Iraq War Veterans Organization. There are more resources listed at the end of this post.

That does not mean that PTSD affects only war veterans. Anyone (adults and children) can experience it at any time. Just a few examples of what can cause PTSD include wartime combat, being raped or sexually or physically assaulted, natural or manmade disasters (such as hurricanes or planes flying into buildings), severe accidents (auto, train, boat etc.) … being involved in a life threatening situation or witnessing traumatic situations, and sometimes even learning about a traumatizing event to another family manner can cause anxiety disorders or PTSD.

Any event that causes you to fear for your life or physical harm, to feel helpless (such as watching a friend or loved one die), or something that causes you horror may lead to PTSD.

Continue reading