Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can cause many symptoms. These symptoms can be grouped into three categories: (1) Recollection symptoms, (2) Avoidance symptoms, and (3) Hyperarousal symptoms.
PTSD - Recollection symptoms
Recollection symptoms involve intensely reliving the traumatic experience through:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Frightening thoughts
PTSD - Avoidance symptoms
These symptoms involve engaging in behaviors that allow the traumatized individual to avoid thoughts, feelings, conversations, etc., about the traumatic event:
- Emotional numbing
- Depersonalization or the feeling of unreality
- Detachment from close relationships
- Avoiding certain places or objects
- Fragmented thoughts, dissociation, or amnesia
- Depression and loss of interest
- Self-destructive behaviors
PTSD - Hyperarousal Symptoms
Hyperarousal is when the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is in a constant state of activation causing:
- Severe insomnia
- Suspiciousness or paranoia
- Hypervigilance
- Anger, aggression or intense rage
- Impulsivity
- Bodily tension
- Difficulty concentrating
- Panic attacks and anxiety
- Distress
Thinking you may be experiencing PTSD, and you want to find out how to heal? Take an online assessment and/or learn more about Bridges to Recovery PTSD treatment facilities today.
