According to the National Institute of Mental Health, (NIMH), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of the 5 recognized types of mental illness commonly known as anxiety disorders. While these five major categories are significant, the complexity of mental disorders demand for segmentation into even more conditions.
The post-traumatic stress syndrome, or PTSD is commonly associated with veterans returning from a war zone. Further study however, has suggested that this disorder isn't limited to war zone veterans that can be identified and people who have had a significant negative event touch their lives. Understand that the complexity of this illness isn't limited to simply mood swings but is embedded in general feeling caused by an event.
That event would naturally be very disturbing, unsettling or emotional scarring. These types of events may include:
a. A physically dangerous situation such as a fire or automobile accident.
b. A physical assault, rape, mugging, threats on your life etc.
c. Personal property assault. Theft, break in of your home, etc.
d. A family member, relative or close friend may have been involved in any of the above
What's interesting is that a person who may be suffering with post traumatic stress disorder isn't necessarily the person who was directly hurt by the event. Throughout the US, many people who didn't lose family in the World Trade Center on September 11 or even lives in New York City were dramatically and emotionally affected by the disaster. This is also a common problem when student and workplace shootings occur.
Stress disorder of the posttraumatic type can be characterized as an emotional rollercoaster that never ends. The fear and "shell shock" feeling of just going through a significant life threatening event can be devastating.
Many PTSD disorder sufferers will regain their emotional equilibrium given enough time. Many find that cognitive behavioral therapy and counseling can help speed the process along. In some of the more extreme in serious cases medications have been used effectively.
One difficulty in living with post traumatic stress disorder symptoms is that seemingly on associated things are events can act as a trigger to cause panic and worry. A good example of this is after someone has broken into your home, every noise can become a trigger to relive the event. Imagine a situation where a creaking door brings a flood of thoughts about an intruder in your home back into your memory.
Although far from being just a condition identified with returning war veterans, post traumatic stress has become a significant issue in our modern day world. With the all too frequent mindless shootings in previously safe places like high schools and the workplace it's no wonder that post traumatic stress is a growing problem in our society. If you or a loved one is suffering from this stress disorder, get professional psychological help as soon as possible.
Related Articles
Anxiety - Holiday, Everyday, Any Day is a Good Reason to Worry
By: Abigail Franks | 07/12/2006 | Health
Many people have anxiety and worry during the holidays. I think it's almost normal considering that all of us to one degree or another bring heightened expectations to any holiday season. We hope that somehow, this ***** fill in the holiday of your choice season will meet our expectations and everything will be wonderful.
Problem is, our memories of any "great and wonderful" holiday have been whitewashed by the passage of time.
Imagine the Terror of a Panic Attack
By: Abigail Franks | 13/12/2006 | Health
Many people who suffer from panic attacks and other anxiety disorders are usually intellectually honest enough to admit that the fear or anxiety is irrational. This isn't surprising as many of us can logically work through a behavior, admit that it's not good for us but still continue to do that behavior.
Finding a Depression Treatment That Works for you
By: Abigail Franks | 14/12/2006 | Health
Anxiety and depression seem to be on the rise in many parts of the world. The increased anxiety after September 11 has caused many people to look fondly at the past well hoping for a better future. In the meantime, it is necessary for many to seek treatment for anxiety and depression if only to be able to continue to function.
Treatments for Depression
By: Jan Howard | 21/06/2008 | Stress Management
Life bombards us with change. Sometimes we look forward to new beginnings, but change can also be unexpected or unwelcome. For some, these significant life events can trigger a major depressive episode....
The Secrets on How to Treat a Panic Attack... and Win
By: Peggy Edwards | 30/06/2008 | Mental Health
There's no doubt that panic and anxiety attacks are among some of the worst things a person can go through in their life. But, there are methods and ways to treat a panic attack so that they can be reduced and even eliminated from your life for good. Here's a look at few tips that will go a long way in fighting off the attacks.
Is your Lifestyle Causing Stress and Anxiety?
By: Abigail Franks | 15/02/2007 | Health
Although there are many types of anxiety, the majority of us at one time or another suffer from general anxiety which makes us feel anxious and worried about what's on our mind. Although it's considered normal to feel anxious or worried at times, general anxiety is characterized by excessive or unrealistic anxiety and worry about life or circumstances
Types of Depression
By: Jan Howard | 21/06/2008 | Stress Management
Major depression is a collection of symptoms that interferes with the ability to handle daily life. Also known as clinical depression, this is what most people think of when the subject of depression comes up.
Teen Depression
By: Jan Howard | 21/06/2008 | Stress Management
Teen depression (or adolescent depression) is a surprisingly common mental health disorder. Although it mirrors the symptoms of major depressive episodes, teen depression is often less visible and may go unnoticed by parents and peers...
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
My one year old suddenly decided that she does not ...
By: Cat | 21-07-2008
My one year old suddenly decided that she does not want to nap or sleep at night. As long as I am holding her she will sleep. I feel like maybe it is seperation anxiety, but she just started this out of the blue. She just spent a few days with a family member but was sleeping fine there. She came home and slept the first night with no problem. Then the next day this began. Any idea's?
Who are the people served by Mental Health of ...
By: connie2532 | 21-07-2008
Who are the people served by Mental Health of America of hancock county, Indiana?
What is involved to open a practice of psychiatry
By: Dolores | 21-07-2008
I have returned to school and was thinking about going into psychology, what is involved to open a practice of psychiatry? schooling, etc. any info is helpful
What is a substandard human being and what is a ...
By: Jackie Hotrod | 20-07-2008
what is a substandard human being and what is a worthless useless human being...that is what I am told by my boyfriend that I am daily for the past year. I need to know what really defines that to see if he is right.
How come I can focus & concentrate better, reading online, than reading a book or magazine?
By: ~!Question Queen Pinto Bean!~ | 18-07-2008
How come I can focus & concentrate better, reading online, than reading a book or magazine?
When I read online, I'm cool. But when I read a book or magazine, why do my OCD unwanted, intrusive thoughts start kicking in & disturbing me?
The backsplash tile in the kitchen of my newly ...
By: Laura Jewell | 17-07-2008
The backsplash tile in the kitchen of my newly purchased home is 4x4 " frosted glass. I like it but think it looks much better when wet because it looks shiney instead of dull. Is there something I can put on it to keep it shiney?
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Health Articles
Reduce Salt Intake, Reduce Life Insurance, Live Longer
By: Catherine Harvey | 24/07/2008
A look at the way our salt intake needs to be balanced for a healthier life.
Weight Loss Secrets - Lose Weight for the Summer Now!
By: Janet Sommers | 24/07/2008
Summer is here again and for sure, men and women alike would like to enjoy the sun and the beach. But enjoying is not complete if you can not wear your favorite sexy swimsuits, right? But with all the websites available in the internet, it is too difficult to know...
Weight Loss Surgery - Is Surgery For Losing Weight Worth It?
By: Janet Sommers | 24/07/2008
If you have been dieting for a long time that you feel like you are on some kind of eternal weight loss program, for sure you have been considering on or thinking about having a weight loss surgery done. Weight loss surgery is not a new way towards losing weight...
Weight Loss Surgery Testimonials - Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For You?
By: Janet Sommers | 24/07/2008
There are many people who want to lose some weight. With this growing demand for products and services that promises the users weight loss in shorter period of time, more ways of losing some pounds in the body are also offered. Some may resolve to strict dieting, heavy exercises, weight...
Weight Loss Tea - The Healthy Way to Lose Weight
By: Janet Sommers | 24/07/2008
Is it true that drinking tea is a healthy way to lose weight? We are now aware of how famous tea variants are working well in the bodies to help health conscious people to lose weight. However, though reported to be effective, still some people are saying that weight loss...
Weight Loss Workout - Discover How to Build a Fit and Healthy Body Now!
By: Janet Sommers | 24/07/2008
When it comes to saying good bye to fats, nothing says it more than having a very good weight loss workout. It has become a common fact and idea that when any person decides and sees the need to slim down, automatically the words 'weight loss workout' come into mind....
Turn Your Shade From Dark to Light
By: James Brown | 24/07/2008
Has your old skin whitening done wonders for you? Have you found something to rely on when it comes to your skin's health and whitening needs? Don't be stuck with the old ways of skin whitening, there is a new answer for your problems, Glutathione.
Glutathione has become one of the...
Nutritional Health Resources Online
By: James Brown | 24/07/2008
Finding health resources online is quick and simple when people use health calculators to describe health conditions that they are currently experiencing. The nutritional health resources online can help people find nutritional supplements to relieve some health related symptoms and through a daily regimen, people have the ability to control...
More from Abigail Franks
Anxiety Treatment Options
By: Abigail Franks | 13/08/2007 | Health
It should be reasonable to assume that finding a generalized anxiety treatment would take some research and careful consideration. There is no simple answer to any mental condition and anxiety is particularly difficult to treat.
Do You Want To Find Cheap College Textbooks And Save Big Bucks?
By: Abigail Franks | 27/06/2007 | Education
A cheaper college textbook is an especially good deal for the local bookstore as the profit margins are very healthy. Not that you should really care about how much they make on your purchases. Still , if they were as concerned about your education as they claim, wouldn't...
Is There Really A Good Home Cure For Head Lice?
By: Abigail Franks | 23/06/2007 | Medicine
If you need a home cure for head louse, don't worry. Getting rid of an infestation of head parasites may be a nuisance but it's not difficult if you use the right treatment. With the ever growing number of head lice infections, there has been a lot of...
Getting the Best Price.- are Half Priced Sales Better Than Discounted Collete Textbooks
By: Abigail Franks | 20/06/2007 | Education
Of all the services provided by your college administration, the buying and selling a discount used college textbook along with other resources materials are the most profitable for them. This is because the discount is usually offered direct from the publisher so it's not a burden to pass it along to the students.
Treating Toenail Fungus Is Easy With The Right Cure
By: Abigail Franks | 18/06/2007 | Medicine
Finding the right method of treating toenail fungus that works for you may take some effort but is definitely worth it to get rid of the toe fungus. While you may have fought or are fighting this condition now, if you're reading this, the lack of a complete cure...
Tips To Potty Train Your Puppy
By: Abigail Franks | 18/06/2007 | Pets
The idea of potty training a puppy may seem more than a little daunting with all the information available today. Fact is though that it's not hard if you have the right tools and methods. Below are a few tips that will start you on this adventure of...
A Toenail Fungus Treatment From The Internet!
By: Abigail Franks | 10/06/2007 | Medicine
Looking for a toenail fungus treatment is typically started by disappointment in different treatment ideas. Fighting this problem is a long term effort and many have feelings of annoyance due to a lack of effective remedies.
The problem is the very nature of this condition. Once you have it,...
House Training a Puppy - Easy Tips
By: Abigail Franks | 09/06/2007 | Pets
So you have a new pet and are starting to think about how you plan to successfully accomplish dog house training, well good for you! Dog house breaking is critical if you want to have a pet that will be happy and contented. Most dogs prefer to be with their human (that's you) and will not be very happy living outdoors.
Health 
