Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by either experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. The most common events that can lead to PTSD include:
Other traumatic events that can lead to PTSD include robberies, muggings, crashes, and life-threatening medical diagnoses.
PTSD can affect children and adults. With the right self-care and time, PTSD can usually improve.
Various factors can play a role in the development of PTSD, such as:
Symptoms of PTSD include:
You might avoid talking or thinking about the traumatic event, and places, people, or activities that remind you of the event. You might feel hopeless about the future, emotionally numb, and have a lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
You might also be easily frightened or startled, be on guard for danger, and engage in aggressive behavior or self-destructive behavior like drinking too much or driving too fast. More severe cases of PTSD might involve suicidal thoughts.
PTSD symptoms might start shortly after the traumatic event or years afterward.
To treat your PTSD, Dr. Buffington might recommend:
Dr. Buffington might suggest managing your stress and treating other problems often associated with traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse.
For compassionate quality support for PTSD, call Buffington Family Medicine to schedule an appointment.