PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
According to the PTSD Association of Canada, “(PTSD) is a serious condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic or terrifying event in which serious physical harm occurred or was threatened. PTSD is a lasting consequence of traumatic ordeals that cause intense fear, helplessness, or horror, such as a sexual or physical assault, the unexpected death of a loved one, an accident, war, or natural disaster. Families of victims can also develop PTSD, as can emergency personnel and rescue workers, first responders, journalists…to name a few.”
There are many healthy and effective ways to deal with trauma that can minimize or remove symptoms of PTSD from our lives. People living with trauma or PTSD can still live happy and healthy lives by being proactive with their healing process.
Symptoms of PTSD can include:
Flashbacks, or reliving the trauma
Nightmares
Intense fear
Avoidance
Loss of interest in activities and hobbies
Guilt, worry or depression
Difficulty remembering the trauma
Hyper-arousal
Difficulty sleeping
Severe emotional distress
Negative feelings towards people/places
Feeling emotionally numb
Hopelessness
Difficulty maintaining relationships
Irritability
Self-destructive behaviour: eating disorders, addiction, etc.
Trouble concentrating
Panic attacks or anxiety