UBC PATHS Blog Post: Jan 30, 2023
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a disorder that is developed by individuals who have experienced a traumatizing event in the past. Events encountered in their daily lives, such as situations or sounds that resemble those that were present during the actual event, can trigger feelings of fear and panic that were initially felt during the time of trauma.
Effects and Symptoms
Intrusive memories:
Recurring, unwanted memories of the traumatic event
Flashbacks of the traumatic event
Nightmares
Avoidance:
Avoiding thinking/discussing traumatic events
Avoiding specific locations, activities, or people
Negative thoughts and moods:
Negative thoughts of self, others, and the world
Feelings of hopelessness
Feeling emotionless
Altered reactions:
Easily startled or frightened
Difficulties sleeping
Increased irritability or aggressive behaviour
Treatments
Although no direct cure for PTSD exists as of yet, there are a variety of ways to mitigate the symptoms of PTSD
Medications exist to treat a variety of PTSD symptoms such as anti-depressants or anti-anxiety meds, as well as certain medications that may suppress nightmares
Taking care of your physical and mental health can help manage the symptoms of PTSD. For example, reducing stress, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and giving yourself time to relax
Did You Know?
70% of adults experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime
1 in 13 people will develop PTSD at some point in their life
About 8 million people have PTSD in a given year
Connection to Alzheimer's
Post-traumatic stress disorder has recently been identified as a potential risk factor for developing dementia
Studies have shown that there might be a correlation between childhood PTSD and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease later in life
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