Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Some people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event may acquire post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health disorder. Life-threatening traumatic events can include a battle, a natural disaster, a vehicle accident, or sexual assault. However, the situation may not always be dangerous. PTSD, for instance, can also be brought on by the abrupt, unexpected death of a loved one.
It’s common to experience fear both during and after a distressing event. The “fight-or-flight” response is triggered by fear. Your body uses this as a means of defending itself against potential injury. It causes changes in your body, such as increased alertness, blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and the production of specific hormones.
Most people recover from this naturally over time. However, some individuals with PTSD do not feel any better. Long after the trauma has passed, they feel anxious and scared. The symptoms of PTSD might appear later. They may also occur and go over time.
