Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that is triggered by a terrifying event. This disorder is characterized by flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts related to this event that were either personally experienced or witnessed.
Most people who witness or experience a traumatic event may have temporary difficulty coping with fear and anxiety associated with the traumatic event. Still, these individuals will usually overcome their fear and anxiety with time and healthy coping skills. Post-traumatic stress disorder affects approximately eight to ten percent of individuals throughout their lifetime or 7.7 million American adults.
Post-Traumatic Stress Injury
Post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) is a mental health condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. PTSI is a natural response to a traumatic experience but can become chronic if not addressed properly. Some common symptoms of PTSI include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and avoidance of situations that trigger memories of the traumatic event. Individuals with PTSI may also experience feelings of guilt, shame, isolation, and difficulties with concentration and sleep.
PTSD vs. PTSI
It is important to note that PTSI is different from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a diagnostic category recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). While both PTSI and PTSD involve symptoms related to traumatic experiences, PTSI is a more inclusive term that recognizes the full spectrum of responses to trauma. The term PTSI is also preferred by some individuals and advocates because it places the emphasis on the injury rather than the disorder and is seen as less stigmatizing than the term “disorder.”
