Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a reaction to a terrifying event that keeps returning in the form of frightening, intrusive memories. ["Anxiety Disorders Research At the National Institute of Mental Health." 1999]

Cause

Only severe stress, such as seeing a friend die in military combat or a violent criminal attack can cause this syndrome. Natural disasters, such as a severe hurricane or earthquake could also bring on PTSD.

Treatment

Many people with PTSD improve with treatment. Often medication (antidepressants & benzodiazepines) is used in combination with therapy. Psychotherapy may be used. Behavioral therapy attempts to change actions through techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing or through gradual exposure to what is freighting. In cognitive-behavioral therapy, a patient will learn to understand their thinking patterns so they can react differently to the situations that cause them anxiety.