What is PTSD? Symptoms, Causes, and How to Find Relief


What is PTSD? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), PTSD can affect individuals over the age of six who have directly or indirectly experienced or witnessed actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. This exposure can occur in several ways, including firsthand experience, witnessing traumatic events, or learning about traumatic experiences of others.

Individuals who experience repetitive trauma—such as those in abusive relationships or victims of human trafficking—are at an increased risk of developing PTSD.

Key Symptoms of PTSD

To receive a diagnosis of PTSD, symptoms must persist for at least 30 days and significantly impact a person’s daily life, work, or relationships. PTSD symptoms fall into four main categories:

  1. Re-experiencing the Trauma:

    • Intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks
    • Intense psychological distress when exposed to reminders
    • Physical reactions to trauma triggers

  2. Avoidance:

    • Steering clear of places, people, or activities that remind you of the trauma
    • Suppressing thoughts, emotions, or conversations about the event

  3. Negative Changes in Thinking or Mood:

    • Persistent negative thoughts about oneself or the world (e.g., “I’m broken” or “The world is unsafe”)
    • Feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others
    • Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

  4. Hypervigilance and Reactivity:

    • Exaggerated startle response
    • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
    • Irritability and self-destructive behavior

While trauma exposure is common, not everyone develops PTSD. Studies show that 70% of individuals worldwide experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, but only about 8% develop PTSD. Early intervention can reduce the risk, but many people recover spontaneously without formal treatment.

Why Do Some People Develop PTSD While Others Don’t?

Although there is no single answer, research indicates several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing PTSD, including:

  • Neurobiological Factors: Imbalances in cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine can contribute to PTSD symptoms.
  • Personal or Family Mental Health History: Those with a genetic predisposition to mental health conditions may be at higher risk.
  • Severity and Duration of Trauma: Experiencing prolonged trauma, such as childhood abuse or repeated violence, increases vulnerability.
  • Foster Care System Involvement: Children in the foster system may experience multiple traumatic events, increasing their risk.
  • Genetic Factors: Dysregulation of serotonin and dopamine may influence the body's response to trauma.
  • Socioeconomic Stressors: Factors such as racism, food insecurity, and displacement (e.g., refugees) can compound trauma impacts.
  • Physical Injury: Sustaining injuries during traumatic events can lead to PTSD development.

Common Causes of PTSD

PTSD can stem from a wide range of traumatic events. According to research, the most common causes include:

  1. Combat Exposure: Military veterans and active service members often experience PTSD due to battlefield trauma.
  2. Sexual Assault: Studies indicate that up to 45% of women who experience sexual assault meet the criteria for PTSD.
  3. Childhood Physical Abuse: Early trauma significantly increases the risk of PTSD in adulthood.
  4. Physical Assault or Threats: Survivors of violent encounters may develop long-lasting trauma responses.
  5. Severe Accidents: Car crashes, workplace incidents, or natural disasters can lead to PTSD symptoms.

Seeking Diagnosis and Treatment for PTSD

Only qualified healthcare professionals—such as psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants—can diagnose PTSD. However, you don't need an official diagnosis to seek help for troubling symptoms.

Evidence-Based PTSD Treatments

Effective treatment approaches focus on helping individuals regulate their nervous system and work through their trauma. Some evidence-based treatments include:

  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Helps individuals reframe negative thoughts related to trauma.
  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET): Involves gradual exposure to trauma reminders in a safe environment to reduce fear responses.
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to process and reframe traumatic memories.
  • Trauma-Sensitive Yoga: A gentle approach that helps reconnect the mind and body.
  • Somatic Experiencing (SE): A body-based therapy designed to help release trauma stored in the nervous system.

The Importance of Embodied Approaches

While traditional therapies can be highly effective, for some individuals, revisiting trauma content too soon can be triggering. Embodied approaches, such as trauma-sensitive yoga, grounding techniques, and somatic experiencing, can help create a sense of safety in the body before diving into deeper trauma work.

Final Thoughts

PTSD is a complex condition that affects millions worldwide. While not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD, those who do can find hope and healing through professional support and evidence-based treatment approaches.

If you suspect you may have PTSD or are struggling with trauma symptoms, take the next step toward healing. Visit Resolve to Rise to explore resources, tools, and expert guidance to help you navigate your journey.

For More Information:

📘 Read my book: Resolve to Rise: Become Greater than Your Circumstances
📥 Get your FREE Companion Guide: Visit www.resolvetorise.com and sign up to receive the Resolve to Rise Companion Guide, a valuable resource to support your healing journey.
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