What Causes Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Many conditions and circumstances can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, the acronym for which is "PTSD." Professional therapists and physicians recognize PTSD as a genuine disorder that affects the sufferer's ability to function normally from day to day.

Life before PTSD

The victim of this particularly pernicious condition may have had some pre-existing conditions which serve to exacerbate the problem. Low self-esteem can worsen the effects of a physical or sexual assault. Fear of the dark can cause a nighttime trauma to seem much worse. While victims do not always show signs of other disorders prior to experiencing PTSD, such afflictions do not help the sufferer to overcome Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

After the trauma

Not only does the victim find his behavior and feelings affected after experiencing a trauma, but other chemical changes can take place in his body. These changes, in turn, can further affect the progression of this disorder. Whether a person falls prey to physical harm or witnesses a terrible accident or physical injury to another, he can begin to experience the manifestations of PTSD. Children who get victimized physically or sexually or who witness domestic abuse may carry the effects of this disorder for many years afterwards and may require intense and regular therapy with a trusted psychologist or psychiatrist in order to lead a normal life. Pharmaceuticals also play a part in the healing process, so a doctor may prescribe some sort of antidepressant for anxiety and depression.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder plagues many people, although the outward signs of it may lie hidden. Understanding it and seeking help pave the way for recovery and the promise of a good life.