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).