WHAT IS POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)?

PTSD is a serious mental disorder that can sometimes occur after exposure to a traumatic event. It is normal for most individuals to experience some form of distress after highly traumatic events. However, for a small number of individuals this develops into a long term and incapacitating problem. The earlier that assistance is sought in these cases the better the rate of recovery.
WHAT IS A TRAUMATIC EVENT?

What constitutes a 'trauma' is different for everyone, however there are a number of generic events that have the potential to cause significant distress. These include but are not limited to:

• Threat of death,
• Serious injury,
• Viewing or handling of dead bodies,
• Death or serious injury of a close friend/colleague,
• Death or serious injury of a family member,
• Exposure to a potentially contagious disease or toxic agent,
• Witnessing human degradation on a large scale, and
• An action or inaction resulting in the serious injury or death for others.
WHAT ARE COMMON REACTIONS?

Most people experience strong reactions after traumatic events, these may include:

• Re-experiencing the event (visual images awake or asleep),
• Intrusive thoughts about the event,
• A desire to avoid anything attached to the event,
• Feelings of panic or being highly anxious,
• Feeling sad, tearful, hopeless or depressed,
• Feeling your personality has changed,
• Drinking more alcohol, or misusing other substances,
• Feelings of guilt or anger,
• Trouble concentrating, disorientation, and memory problems,
• Sleep disturbance, excessive alertness, easily startled,
• Feeling unable to control your moods, especially when trying to control your anger, and
• Having difficulties with relationships.
WHEN SHOULD I SEEK HELP?

If the symptoms outlined are causing you considerable distress and impacting on your ability to work or function socially, you need to seek help. If these symptoms persist for more than four weeks, you should seek help.
WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If you are experiencing ongoing distress please seek help as soon as possible. Contact your local Medical Centre, Chaplain, Psychologist, Social Worker or the Duty Officer/Officer of the Day. You do not have to do this alone and there is help available.