A mental health professional-such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker-can determine whether symptoms meet the criteria for PTSD. For example, some people may feel detached from the experience, as though they are observing things as an outsider rather than experiencing them. People with PTSD often have co-occurring conditions, such as depression, substance use, or one or more anxiety disorders.Īfter a dangerous event, it is natural to have some symptoms. Although some people recover within 6 months, others have symptoms that last for 1 year or longer. The symptoms also must be unrelated to medication, substance use, or other illness. To meet the criteria for PTSD, a person must have symptoms for longer than 1 month, and the symptoms must be severe enough to interfere with aspects of daily life, such as relationships or work. Symptoms of PTSD usually begin within 3 months of the traumatic event, but they sometimes emerge later. Certain aspects of the traumatic event and biological factors (such as genes) may make some people more likely to develop PTSD. Women are more likely than men to develop PTSD.

Sometimes, learning that a relative or close friend experienced trauma can cause PTSD.Ībout 6 of every 100 people will experience PTSD at some point in their lifetime, according to the National Center for PTSD, a U.S. Not everyone with PTSD has been through a dangerous event. People who have PTSD may feel stressed or frightened, even when they are no longer in danger. This includes combat veterans and people who have experienced or witnessed a physical or sexual assault, abuse, an accident, a disaster, a terror attack, or other serious events.

Who develops PTSD?Īnyone can develop PTSD at any age. Those who continue to experience symptoms may be diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People may experience a range of reactions after trauma, and most will recover from their symptoms over time. Fear is a part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which helps us avoid or respond to potential danger.

It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. What is post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD?

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