Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, rape or other violent personal assault. PTSD can occur in all people of any nationality or culture, and any age. PTSD affects approximately one in 11 people. Women are twice as likely as men to have PTSD. People with PTSD may avoid situations or people that remind them of the traumatic event, and they may have strong negative reactions to something as ordinary as a loud noise or an accidental touch. A diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an upsetting traumatic event.
PTSD Complications
PTSD can cause problems in every aspect of your life, including your job, your relationships, your health, and your everyday activities. It may also make you more likely to develop other mental health problems, such as:
- Depression and anxiety.
- Drug or alcohol abuse.
- Eating disorders.
- Suicidal thoughts and actions.
