Understanding PTSD: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition classified under anxiety disorders, characterized by ongoing anxiety triggered by a traumatic event experienced by the individual.

Unlike other mental health disorders, PTSD (often referred to simply as "post-trauma") is caused specifically by an external event- something that happens to the person from the outside (while many other disorders stem primarily from internal psychological processes). The event that causes PTSD is typically one that involved a real or perceived serious threat to the person’s life, health, or personal safety.

When someone experiences a traumatic event, the body normally enters a state of hyperarousal- sweating, rapid heartbeat, heightened sensitivity to sounds or sights, and so on. This reaction is natural and necessary because it helps the person escape danger. In most cases, once the threat is over, these symptoms gradually fade. In PTSD however, the body and mind stay in this heightened state long after the danger has passed.

A diagnosis of PTSD is only made if the symptoms persist for more than a month. Similar symptoms that occur within the first month are classified as Acute Stress Reaction.

What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms are generally divided into three main categories: re-experiencing, hyperarousal, and avoidance.

1. Re-experiencing (Flashbacks)

Also known as “flashbacks,” this is when the person relives the trauma in vivid detail, either while awake or asleep. It can feel as if the traumatic event is happening all over again, with intense distress and physical arousal. Flashbacks are often triggered by something that reminds the person of the trauma.

These episodes can be so intense that they lead to the next two symptom types.

2. Hyperarousal

Because of the trauma and the fear of flashbacks, the person may live in a constant state of physical alertness. This can include:

• Irritability and anger

• Heightened startle response

• Difficulty sleeping

• Trouble concentrating

• Sensitivity to sights, sounds, or smells

Often this hypervigilance is driven by a fear of encountering something that could trigger a flashback.

3. Avoidance

To prevent triggers, the person may begin avoiding anything that could remind them of the trauma. This could mean:

• Avoiding physical locations or activities

• Emotionally withdrawing or suppressing thoughts about the trauma

• Emotional numbness

• Inability to feel joy or plan for the future

• A narrowed range of interests

Early Intervention and PTSD Treatment

The most effective treatment for PTSD often begins immediately after the trauma. In the minutes or hours following the event, signs such as dissociation, trembling, or collapse may appear.

In such cases:

• Sit the person down and speak calmly but with authority (not emotionally).

• Maintain eye contact and use their name.

• Acknowledge what happened and affirm that the event is now over.

• Give them a small, simple task to help ground them in the present.

In the days and weeks that follow, two evidence-based psychological treatments have been proven effective for PTSD:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Focuses on reshaping thought patterns and behaviors related to the trauma.

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Combines bilateral brain stimulation (like eye movements) with trauma recall, helping to reprocess distressing memories.

In some cases, medication may be prescribed- typically SSRI antidepressants to help manage symptoms.

Early, focused, and professional intervention can help trauma survivors reduce anxiety, regain control, and return to normal life.