Traumatic events are not limited to direct victims of physical violence. Just living in a dangerous environment-a drug-infested neighborhood, for instance, where shooting or violent attacks occur-or witnessing someone else experience or be threatened with violent or otherwise abusive behavior can result in feelings of intense fear or helplessness. Post traumatic stress can also result from such childhood traumas as being hit by a caregiver or touched sexually.
Most people who experience traumatic events will not develop PTSD. The disorder is characterized by particular signs and symptoms. Most common among these symptoms is the persistent re-experience of the traumatic event. People may re-experience events through recurrent memories, nightmares, or flashbacks. Other symptoms include helplessness, guilt, mistrust, depression, numbness, irritability, outbursts of anger, difficulty sleeping and concentrating, and increased use of alcohol or drugs. Although these symptoms may be related to other issues, it is not unusual for a person with PTSD to experience some or several of these symptoms. Symptoms usually begin within the first three months after the trauma, but may not appear for several months or even years. The intensity of psychological distress often increases if the person is exposed to an event which resembles or symbolizes the original trauma.
Post traumatic stress disorder can cause problems in a person-s social and work life and can become disabling if untreated. If you or someone you know may be suffering fro post traumatic stress, it is important to reach out for help. PTSD can be treated with mental health counseling. Support groups for individuals who have suffered particular types of trauma (for example, the 12-step groups Survivors of Incest Anonymous) have regular meetings in the Bay Area. If you wish to know more about PTSD, you can contact Amy Tedesco, Social Worker, at The Hawkins Center's Supportive Service program for referrals and other information.