PTSD: What You Need to Know

What You Need to Know About PTSD

PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) is an anxiety disorder that can develop as a result of a traumatic experience.

• 24.4 million people in the United States suffer from PTSD
• Approximately 50% of adults living with PTSD also struggle with substance abuse

PTSD Gender Differences

Men

• 6% will experience PTSD in their lifetime
• Typically suffer from PTSD for 1 year
• Top reasons men suffer from PTSD include rape, combat exposure, childhood neglect, and childhood physical abuse

Women

• 12% will experience PTSD in their lifetime
• Typically suffer from PTSD for 4 years
• Top reasons women suffer from PTSD include rape, sexual assault, physical attack, and being threatened with a weapon

Psychological Symptoms of PTSD

• Anxiety
• Distrust
• Depression
• Avoidance
• Self-blame
• Fear
• Phobias
• Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• Panic attacks
• Poor concentration
• Substance abuse
• Emotional numbness
• Suicidal ideation

Physical Symptoms of PTSD

• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Stomach aches
• Weight loss
• Migraines
• Chronic pain
• Muscle cramps
• Lower back pain

Though there is no cure for PTSD, the symptoms can be treated with group therapy, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

Data Source: National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, European Journal of Psych Traumatology.