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What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can be triggered by a terrifying event; either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. 

People who have PTSD may feel stressed or scared even when they’re not in danger. PTSD can occur in people of any age, including children. It’s not clear why some people develop PTSD while others don’t. But it is known that having a history of mental illness, trauma, or substance abuse can make one more susceptible to developing PTSD. 

Treating PTSD can be difficult, but there are effective interventions available. Exposure therapy for example, involves gradually exposing the person to the event or events that trigger their symptoms. This process can help them to eventually face their fear and learn to cope with the memories. Medications, such as antidepressants, may also be helpful in managing symptoms. If you or someone you know appears to be struggling with PTSD, it’s important to reach out for help from a mental health professional. 

Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD is a mental health condition that can be triggered by a traumatic event, such as war, natural disasters, or sexual assault. 

Symptoms of PTSD can include: 

  • Nightmares 
  • Flashbacks 
  • Anxiety 
  • Depression 
  • Feeling disconnected from friends and family. 

While everyone reacts differently to trauma, there are five main signs that someone may be experiencing PTSD: 

  • Avoiding reminders of the event 
  • Reliving the event through intrusive memories or flashbacks 
  • Having negative thoughts and feelings about oneself or the world 
  • Feeling constantly on guard or easily startled 
  • Experiencing physical symptoms such as insomnia or headaches. 

If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it is important to seek professional help. 

How Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Affects Children

Children with PTSD can have lasting feelings of anxiety or physical reactions, trouble falling or staying asleep, and feeling cranky, grouchy, or angry. They can also develop problems paying attention or focusing and always being on the lookout for danger or warning signs. 

Signs of PTSD in teens are similar to those in adults. But PTSD in children can look a little different. Younger children can show more fearful and regressive behaviours and they may re-enact the trauma through play. Symptoms usually begin within the first month after the trauma, but they may not show up until months or even years have passed. These symptoms often continue for years after the trauma. In some cases, they may ease and return later in life if another event triggers memories of the trauma. 

A child who meets the criteria for PTSD shows symptoms commonly grouped in three areas: 

  • Intrusive memories, such as bad dreams and play that re-enact the event 
  • Avoidance and numbing, such as difficulty maintaining relationships, difficulty concentrating, and disinterest in formerly significant activities 
  • Increase in arousal, such as irritability, guilt, trouble sleeping, or fearful behaviour

For more information: https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/health-daily-care/school-age-mental-health-concerns/phobias-panic-attacks-pts  

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