Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone who has experienced a traumatic event. Early recognition of the symptoms is crucial for seeking timely help and support. Here are eight warning signs of PTSD to watch out for:
Unwanted memories of the traumatic event that keep coming back, including flashbacks and bad dreams.
Staying away from places, activities, or people that remind you of the traumatic event.
Constant feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and negative thoughts about yourself or the world.
Being overly alert, having trouble sleeping, feeling irritable, and being easily startled.
Feeling disconnected from others, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, and feeling emotionally empty.
Finding it hard to remember important details of the traumatic event.
Experiencing headaches, dizziness, chest pain, and stomach problems without a clear medical reason.
Taking part in risky activities, using drugs or alcohol too much, or hurting yourself.