Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: 6 Tell-Tale Signs of PTSD That Mean It’s Time to Seek Professional Help

Mental health requires a more candid conversation. Just as we are aware of some physical health issues and when to see a doctor, there is a growing need for similar awareness of mental health issues.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD as it is commonly called, is a mental health condition that is triggered after a person has experienced a traumatic event. Such events can leave lasting effects of fear and negativity. From nightmares to severe anxiety, there are various signs and symptoms of PTSD. Previously, this mental health condition was called “war shock” or “battle fatigue” because it was more commonly understood in war veterans. However, with the evolution of studies and understanding, it has been concluded that PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of their age. It is a trauma-induced fear that can sometimes have serious implications as well.

One way that PTSD affects neurological health is through structural and chemical changes in the brain. Studies have shown that people with PTSD often have a smaller hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and emotion regulation. This can make it difficult to remember and process emotions.

Signs and symptoms of PTSD

PTSD can create a chemical imbalance in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which are involved in regulating mood. In people with PTSD, the amygdala may be overactive, increasing fear responses even in non-threatening situations. Neurologically, PTSD can also affect the amygdala, which is responsible for fear and threat processing.

This imbalance can lead to symptoms such as:

• Anxiety
• depression
• overexcitability
• These neurological changes can cause a variety of symptoms such as nightmares,
• memories
• irritability
• difficult to focus
• trouble sleeping.

Common signs of PTSD

1. People with PTSD may have vivid memories of the traumatic event and feel like reliving it. For example, veterans may experience flashbacks of explosions or gunshots when they hear loud noises.
2. PTSD can cause recurrent, intense nightmares related to the traumatic event. A car accident survivor may have nightmares about the accident and wake up with fear and anxiety.
3. A person may try to avoid all memories of the trauma. For example, victims of sexual assault may avoid going to certain places or interacting with certain people associated with their traumatic experiences.
4. PTSD can hold negative emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, and shame. Survivors of natural disasters can experience overwhelming grief as they reflect on the loss suffered during the event. 7. PTSD can manifest as physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, and general aches and pains. People who have experienced a traumatic event often complain of headaches and stomach problems for which no medical cause can be identified.

Mental health requires more candid conversations and increased awareness. When someone may be experiencing such signs or symptoms, it is best to seek professional help. Mental health professionals can relieve stress and help manage and learn to live with it. And as we say, it’s okay not to be okay.