Post traumatic stress disorder is a the term given to a situation where extreme anxiety is experienced in a person who has been exposed to a traumatic event which has caused either physical or psychological pain or even both. Symptoms that fit the post traumatic stress disorder definition include experiencing flashbacks or vivid recollections of events, actively avoiding...
...situations that remind one of the trauma and insomnia. It may also manifest itself as anger. Persons suffering from the disorder may also struggle at work or in their personal relationships.
When conducting a post traumatic stress disorder test it is essential to essential to establish the nature of trauma suffered by the patient. These may include threats or perceived threats to one’s life and many other psychologically traumatic experiences. Symptoms, as described above, generally last for more than a month before the condition is diagnosed.
Post traumatic stress disorder is described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV) differs significantly from the previous definition as per DSM III. Some studies of post traumatic stress disorder statistics claim that the number of cases covered under the new definition of post traumatic stress disorder has increased by as much as 50% after the new criteria have been given. Further statistics show that in the United States, about 8% of the population suffers from some form of post traumatic stress disorder. However, it is noted that in places where extreme events have occurred, including natural disasters, war, and genocides, there are reports of much higher rates of post traumatic stress disorder sufferers. Persons who are victims of crimes are also included in the list of traumatic stress disorder sufferers.
Chronic post traumatic stress disorder is the phase that occurs after the initial period of the trauma. Initially, usually within 90 days of the trauma, patients suffer from extreme reactions to the trauma and similar stimuli. However, symptoms persist for long periods of time in the case of chronic disorders. It may be noted that the effects of the disorder tend to go away but they always reappear.
Treating post traumatic stress disorder begins with counseling. In some cases, where trauma is expected, such as in soldiers or rescue workers to a natural disaster, counseling is often given before they are exposed to the situation that might cause them to have the disorder. This method tends to prepare their minds to the situation and may offer some relief. Other treatments include medication and psychotherapy.
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