Trauma and PTSD

Trauma is any stressful, frightening or distressing event that adversely impact our mental, physical, emotional, social, or spiritual well-being. 

The effects can be long-lasting.  Traumatic events can happen at any age and have lasting effects on our physical and mental well-being.

 

While a traumatic event is time-based, post-traumatic stress disorder is a long-term condition where one continues to re-experience the traumatic event, and has difficulty recovering after the trauma. 

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The condition may last months or even years, with triggers that can bring back painful memories of the trauma appearing from nowhere, accompanied by flashbacks with intense emotional, and physical reactions. 

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Despite its more common association with soldiers returning from combat situations having witnessed horrific situations, PTSD is a condition that can apply to anyone who has experienced traumatic, life-threatening events. 

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No one is immune to trauma or how it affects the human brain. Depending on the person, PTSD may mean something different but be equally as impactful. 

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While trauma does not always directly lead to PTSD, it is beneficial for those who have witnessed or experienced trauma to know the signs and symptoms of PTSD and to seek help.