Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after exposure to a threatened-death/serious-injury/sexual-violence event. Core symptoms: intrusive re-experiencing (flashbacks/nightmares), avoidance of trauma-related stimuli, persistent hyperarousal (hypervigilance, exaggerated startle, insomnia), and negative alterations in cognition/mood (amnesia, blame, anhedonia, detachment), lasting more than 1 month and causing functional impairment. Treatment: trauma-focused psychotherapy (CBT/EMDR) and SSRIs; manage comorbid depression/substance use.

Common Symptoms

Intrusive flashbacks/nightmares; avoidance; hyperarousal/hypervigilance; negative cognition/mood; insomnia; functional impairment after trauma

Causes and Pathogenesis

Traumatic stress, in vulnerable individuals, dysregulates threat-memory and arousal circuits (amygdala/hippocampus), producing the PTSD syndrome.

Treatment

Trauma-focused CBT/EMDR; SSRIs; prazosin for nightmares; manage comorbid depression/substance use

Preventive Measures

Early support after trauma; early CBT; social support; treat acute stress reaction promptly.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Psychiatry department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.