Living With Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Isn't Easy...

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder brought on by a person who has experienced a traumatic or terrifying event in their life that overwhelms the person's ability to cope. Anything that causes serious stress can trigger PTSD, especially if the person feels that they themselves or a loved one is in danger. Other events that can cause PTSD include sexual abuse, torture or a violent automobile accident.

Post-traumatic stress disorder is more common than you might think. Over 5 million adults suffer from this disorder every year, and nearly 8 percent of the world's population will deal with PTSD at some point in their lives. Studies show nearly 10 percent of women develop PTSD over the course of their lives, as compared to 5 percent of men.

A person suffering from PTSD may have frequent nightmares, severe anxiety and flashbacks to the traumatic event. If a person experiences these symptoms for longer than a month or the symptoms are especially severe, they should see a health care professional.