Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can cause many unsettling symptoms which are typically recognized as stemming from one of four categories. It is important to note, however, that these categories are not mutually exclusive and trauma survivors can experience any or all of these symptoms simultaneously. Some symptoms overlap categories, and experiencing symptoms of one “type” can also lead to those of another over time. Here are the most common indicators that someone is suffering from PTSD:
Reliving the trauma.
This includes recurring, involuntary memories associated with the trauma experienced. These are unavoidable and seemingly inescapable, often come at the most inopportune times, and are especially distressing. The memories may present in the form of flashbacks, nightmares, or hallucinations. During the flashbacks, individuals might disassociate from present surroundings either partially or completely.
Re-experiencing may or may not be induced by triggers, which include people, places, things, events, circumstances, activities, situations, etc. that stir up “forgotten” memories suddenly, “out of nowhere.” As an example, a trauma survivor may visit a shopping mall, pass a store in which he or she was attacked (the catalyst for developing PTSD) and suddenly relive the attack internally all over again. Or, every anniversary of a traumatic event may trigger a survivor to relive it.
Avoidance.
Those who’ve experienced trauma may purposely avoid any stimuli associated with what occurred. This includes blocking out associated memories, thoughts, or feelings. The survivor might isolate from loved ones. They may go to great lengths to avoid certain stimuli altogether.
Depersonalization can also occur. This is when the person feels completely detached from self, that their existence “isn’t real,” or as if they are living in a dream state. Continually experiencing triggers and reliving trauma can lead to avoidance behaviors.
Hypervigilance.
Many survivors note increased arousal symptoms, including heightened emotions, mood swings, difficulty falling or stay asleep, insomnia, being easily startled, or experiencing panic attacks and paranoia. Hypervigilance can lead to physical symptoms, including muscle aches and tension, an increased heart rate, gut problems, and debilitating symptoms related to chronic sleep deprivation.
Negative Thoughts, Feelings, and Mood.
This response includes persistent emotional distress, such as feelings of self-blame, guilt, shame, fear, depression, or confusion, among others. Clinical depression can develop, and a trauma survivor may socially withdraw and not take interest in activities they once enjoyed. It may seem next to impossible to be positive and uplifting, and one can feel completely engulfed in negativity.
Again, these are the most common symptoms of PTSD. However, there are many ways a survivor can respond to trauma, and everyone has a different threshold for what would constitute as “traumatic enough” to induce these symptoms. They should never be taken lightly. If you or anyone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, you do not have to suffer alone. Professional help is available.