Events
that cause the individual to fear for personal life and wellbeing - such as a
car collision or other accident, a physical or sexual assault, long term abuse,
torture, a natural disaster, living in a war zone, or life-altering experiences
like the death of a loved one can all spur the following PTSD symptoms…
1.
Physical Pain - Common
physical ailments [that can occur are] headaches (or migraines), dizziness,
fatigue, chest pain, breathing difficulties, and stomach…issues.
2. Nightmares
(or Flashbacks) - Re-experiencing [is when a person] suddenly (and
vividly) re-lives the traumatic event in a repetitive manner [in dreams or in
waking hours]…It may cause both children and adult sufferers to have sleeping
difficulties and anxiety leaving the safety of home.
3. Depression
or Anxiety - Mental phobias,
which professionals deem as irrational and persistent fear and avoidance of
certain objects or situations can cause extreme anxiety…to the point where it
causes paranoia and depression.
4. Withdrawal- Patients with solid social lives and interests may
suddenly lose interest in favorite hobbies, activities, and friends that they
used to be very passionate about…
5. Avoidance - Avoidance of any physical or mental stimuli that
reminds them of a past traumatic event can be typical… [It] could also cause
particular avoidances of places or people or places that are reminiscent you of
the traumatic experience.
6. Repression – [This is] the intentional blockage of memories
associated with a past event or experience… The people may destroy pictures or
memorabilia of a time in their life or attempt to distracting themselves by
throwing themselves into work.
7. Emotional
Numbing - It’s very common for [people]…to
try to numb their feelings…Emotional numbing often leads to the gradual
withdrawal and eventually the complete isolated from social circles.
8. Hyper-arousal – [Some people]…suffer jitters so severe that it
becomes impossible to relax due to the fear of threats. These individuals can
be characterized as “on edge” and “jumpy” or easily frightened.
9. Irritability- This [is a] state of constant fear and paranoia can
cause [touchiness], indecisiveness, and a total lack of concentration,
sleeplessness, and difficulty maintaining personal relationships.
10. Guilt and
Shame – Those… who can’t get past
their negative experience may find it difficult to move forward and maintain a
healthy life. They may blame themselves and constantly relive the event,
wondering how they could have prevented it. Often immense shame and guilt will
set in if they blame themselves for the tragedy…
Treatment and recovery of PTSD
is dependent on being honest with health care professions and your
loved ones. Seek social support and get treatment immediately if you experience
any symptoms.[ii]
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