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 What
to Expect After a Traumatic Event
Individuals can experience a wide range of emotional reactions
to a traumatic event. Reactions vary, and can range from relatively
mild, to severe emotional responses that create major disruptions
in a person's life. It is important to remember, however, that most
emotional and behavioral responses are normal reactions to an abnormal
event. It is very common for people to experience anxiety, fear,
shock, and grief, as well as emotional numbness and personal or
social disconnection. For many people, reactions gradually diminish
over time. It is often helpful to speak with family and friends
about what happened, express one's feelings about the event, and
get support from people that can be trusted.
For some people exposed to trauma, disturbing symptoms can persist
or even worsen. These symptoms may be related to the diagnosis of
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
 What Are
the Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?
- Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition
that can occur after exposure to a life threatening event.
- Individuals affected by trauma may develop physical and psychological
symptoms. Symptoms may include flashbacks of the ordeal, insomnia,
nightmares, and waking up screaming because of recurring images.
Some individuals experience emotional detachment from others.
- Hyperarousal. People may be easily startled, have difficulty
concentrating, and display angry outbursts. Some abuse alcohol
or drugs to deal with their distress.
- Avoidance. After a disaster, many people avoid places, events
or objects reminiscent of the traumatic event. They may switch
to another occupation. Anniversaries of the event can trigger
symptoms.
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal distress,
dizziness and chest pains may stem from anxiety.
- Trauma may prevent normal emotional development and maturity
among children and adolescents.
- Family members, significant others and friends may also suffer
traumatic symptoms that impair their daily lives.
Who Develops
the Disorder?
PTSD can develop at any age, including childhood. Symptoms typically
begin within 3 months of a traumatic event, although occasionally
they do not begin until years later. Once PTSD occurs, the severity
and duration of the illness varies. Some people recover within 6
months, while others suffer much longer. Studies show that survivors
of human-caused catastrophes are more likely to develop PTSD than
those who have experienced natural disasters. The more intense and
long-lasting the traumatic experience, the more likely the survivor
will develop PTSD. In addition, people who have been abused as children
or who have had a previous traumatic experience are more likely
to develop the disorder.
Do Other
Physical or Emotional Illnesses Tend to Accompany PTSD?
Depression, relationship problems, alcohol or other substance abuse,
or anxiety disorders (panic attacks, phobias) are not uncommon co-occurrences
for people with PTSD. The likelihood of treatment success is increased
when these other conditions are appropriately diagnosed and treated
as well.
Where to
go for Help
If you would like more information about the effects of trauma
or where you can get help in the New York City area, please contact
1-800-LifeNet (1-800-543-3638).
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