25 Common Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced a traumatic event, such as military combat, sexual assault, physical assault, or natural disasters. The symptoms of PTSD can be severe and long-lasting, and can affect a person's daily life.

Here are 25 common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder:

1. Flashbacks - These are intense, vivid memories of the traumatic event that can feel like the event is happening again.

   
   
   

2. Nightmares - People with PTSD may have nightmares that are related to the traumatic event.

   
   
   

3. Avoidance - People with PTSD may avoid certain people, places, or situations that remind them of the traumatic event.

   
   
   

4. Intrusive thoughts - These are recurring thoughts or memories of the traumatic event that can be distressing and difficult to control.

   
   
   

5. Emotional numbing - People with PTSD may feel detached or emotionally numb, and may have difficulty experiencing pleasure or positive emotions.

   
   
   

6. Hypervigilance - People with PTSD may be constantly on guard, and may be easily startled or jumpy.

   
   
   

7. Irritability - People with PTSD may have a short temper and may become easily irritated or angry.

   
   
   

8. Anxiety - People with PTSD may feel anxious or nervous, and may have panic attacks.

9. 
   Depression - People with PTSD may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or despair.
   
   
   
   

10. Insomnia - People with PTSD may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

    
    
    

11. Difficulty concentrating - People with PTSD may have difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.

    
    
    

12. Loss of interest - People with PTSD may lose interest in activities they used to enjoy.

    
    
    

13. Feelings of guilt - People with PTSD may feel guilty or responsible for the traumatic event.

    
    
    

14. Self-destructive behavior - People with PTSD may engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, self-harm, or reckless driving.

    
    
    

15. Social withdrawal - People with PTSD may isolate themselves from others and may have difficulty forming relationships.

    
    
    

16. Emotional outbursts - People with PTSD may have sudden, intense emotional outbursts, such as anger or crying.

    
    
    

17. Suicidal thoughts - People with PTSD may experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

    
    
    

18. Physical symptoms - People with PTSD may experience physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension.

    
    
    

19. Dissociation - People with PTSD may feel disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or surroundings.

    
    
    

20. Hyperarousal - People with PTSD may have an exaggerated startle response, and may be easily triggered by loud noises or sudden movements.

    
    
    

21. Mood swings - People with PTSD may experience rapid shifts in their mood, going from happy to sad to angry in a short period of time.

    
    
    

22. Shame - People with PTSD may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their symptoms, and may try to hide them from others.

    
    
    

23. Panic attacks - People with PTSD may experience sudden, intense feelings of fear or panic.

    
    
    

24. Difficulty trusting others - People with PTSD may have difficulty trusting others, and may be suspicious or paranoid.

    
    
    

25. Feeling emotionally overwhelmed - People with PTSD may feel emotionally overwhelmed by their symptoms, and may have difficulty coping with day-to-day life.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek help from a mental health professional. PTSD is a treatable condition, and with the right support and treatment, people with PTSD can learn to manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

You may like: 20 Ways How to Improved Men's Mental Health