PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a fairly well-known mental health disorder – based on references in popular culture at least. In reality it is a serious and fairly recently-recognised condition that causes a great deal of distress to a great many people.
PTSD is what it says it is: a stress disorder that occurs in response to a traumatic experience. The most common triggers for PTSD include warfare, violence, domestic abuse, rape, traffic accidents, death of a loved one, and life threatening illness. The term “PTSD” really only came into general use in the 1970s, mainly relating to American soldiers struggling with Vietnam war experiences. Prior to this various terms were used with “Shell Shock” perhaps the best known.
Typically PTSD symptoms commence within about 3 months of the experience/trigger. Symptoms include uncomfortable (and hard to control) memories and flashbacks, nightmares, as well as generalised anxiety including physical manifestations such as raised heart rate, sweating, etc. PTSD is often associated with other conditions including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It is important to note that minor variations of this symptom complex would usually be considered “normal” as in “a normal response to a traumatic experience” but when the symptoms become excessive, intrusive, and ongoing, a diagnosis of PTSD should at least be considered.
PTSD is difficult to treat. Preventive measures including post-event psychological “debriefing” have been found to be unhelpful. The best approach appears to be to raise awareness and reduce stigma (through communication and education programmes) such that potential patients are effectively encouraged to present early when they experience PTSD-like symptoms. Treatment is mainly psychotherapy and counselling. Medications have been used and may offer a small benefit, although habit-forming medications like benzodiazepines (sleeping pills and tranquillisers) should almost always be avoided.
PTSD may affect almost one on ten people at some stage in life. The most serious forms of PTSD usually involve assault or interpersonal violence in some form. Treatment can be helpful but early diagnosis and a supportive non-judgemental counselling approach is needed.
PTSD is a serious condition and in the serious world we live in today, it does not appear to be going away anytime soon. Be aware of this condition and encourage any possible victims (including yourself of course) to seek professional help early.
Written by Dr Colin Burns
