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POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Saba Nayyar

The Gandi Institute of Technology and Management

PSYC6051: Stress Intervention

Dr Durgesh Nandinee

November 23,2023
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Defining PTSD in my words

PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health issue triggered by

experiencing a traumatic event. It brings constant problems like flashbacks,

nightmares, and increased anxiety, disturbing daily life. People with PTSD may battle

unwanted memories, avoid reminders of the trauma, and face mood swings. These

effects remain even after the incident, affecting relationships and overall happiness.

Treatment for it is usually counselling and sometimes medication to manage

symptoms and to develop coping skills Having friends and family who get what’s

going on and support you is important to get better. PTSD is hard, but with the right

help and understanding, things can improve.

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The signs/criteria related to PTSD

The criteria for diagnosing PTSD, according to the DSM-5 (Text Revision), encompass

several key signs and symptoms:

1. Traumatic Event Exposure: Individuals must have been exposed to a traumatic

event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence.

2. Intrusive Memories: Persistent and distressing memories, flashbacks, or

nightmares related to the traumatic event.

3. Avoidance: Efforts to avoid reminders of the trauma, including thoughts,

feelings, or external reminders.

4. Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition: Persistent negative alterations in

mood, distorted cognitions, and feelings of detachment or estrangement from

others.

5. Heightened Arousal: Increased irritability, hypervigilance, difficulty

concentrating, and exaggerated startle response.

6. Duration: These symptoms persist for more than one month and result in

significant distress or impairment in daily functioning.

7. Recognizing these signs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely

intervention to support individuals dealing with the profound impact of

traumatic experiences.
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References

The American Psychiatric Association (1952), DSM-5 (Text Revision),updated 2022