Post-traumatic stress disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Medically reviewed byGiorgi (Guga) Sikharulidze · Professor of Psychiatry, MD,PhD · Founder & Clinical Director· Last updated: July 7, 2026
Post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ) is characterized by repetitive vivid flashbacks, intrusive thoughts and images, nightmares, and intense distress at reminders of traumatic events.
A person may develop PTSD after being exposed to:
- emotionally or/and physically traumatic event
- abuse
- life-threatening event
- catastrophe
- long-term distress
Symptoms of PTSD:
- Flashbacks
- Intrusive images
- Re-experiencing of a traumatic event
- Persistent anxiety
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased concentration
- Reduced mood
- Avoidance of triggers
- Difficulty intentionally recalling traumatic events
- Inability to experience emotions
- Feelings of danger and alarm
Approximately 2,1-2,3% of the global population struggle with PTSD, which often co-occurs with depressive symptomatology and anxiety. [1]
- Pharmacotherapy
- Psychotherapy
References
1. Koenen KC, Ratanatharathorn A, Ng L, et al. Posttraumatic stress disorder in the World Mental Health Surveys. Psychol Med. 2017;47(13):2260–2274. doi:10.1017/S0033291717000708
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