Roughly 70% of American adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives. Of these, 20% go on to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. This incidence is higher for certain traumatic events such as rape, where roughly 50% will go on to develop PTSD. Children who have been repeatedly traumatized, by physical or sexual abuse for example, often experience Complex PTSD as adults if the trauma is not ended and addressed early on. Examples of traumatic events are car accidents, natural disasters, the sudden loss of a loved one, or witnessing violence.
All people experience an acute reaction in the aftermath of trauma - difficulty sleeping, nightmares, anxiety, a sense of disbelief. This reaction frequently improves and resolves itself in time. PTSD develops when, a month or more after the event, you find that you have not returned to your pre-trauma functioning. You may find yourself regularly re-experiencing the trauma as flashbacks and feel as if it is happening all over again. You may be avoiding reminders of the trauma to the extent that it is interfering with work or family life. You may have developed depression and a sense of helplessness and hopelessness. It is important to know that PTSD is treatable and typically does not go away on its own. If you recently experienced a traumatic event, please read through the resources below. If you are still suffering from an event that occurred more than one month ago, please contact me for a consultation.
Resources:
Healthy coping after a traumatic event
Sidran Institute - Traumatic Stress Education and Advocacy
