Post-traumatic stress disorder can occur when an individual experiences a traumatic event. Symptoms can manifest within three months of the traumatic event and they do so in various ways. Events like rape, vehicle accident, physical attack, molestation or combat can all be events that can trigger this serious disorder.
According to the National Institute of Health, it is estimated that 5.2 million people between the ages of 18-54 suffer from PTSD. Women are 2-3 times more likely to get this disorder. One study showed that after the Oklahoma City Bombing, 45% of women that were present were diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Only 33% of men were diagnosed with the disorder after the bombing. A Yale University study shows that 27.8% of men exposed to combat showed signs of PTSD and 21% of those men became abusive to their spouse. Studies show that people that have previously experienced more than one traumatic event are more susceptible to developing PTSD. An individual diagnosed with this disorder can experience a broad range of symptoms.
People respond to post-traumatic stress disorder in a variety of ways. There are three main categories of symptoms associated with PTSD: re-experiencing the traumatic event, avoidance and emotional numbing, and increased arousal. Some people begin experiencing the symptoms in a matter of hours, while others may begin to see symptoms within a year of the traumatic event. Some of the symptoms include: trouble concentrating, flashbacks, problems with memory, feelings of hopelessness, trouble sleeping, substance abuse, depression, overwhelming guilt/shame and suicidal thoughts.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can be treated and there are medical professionals that specialize in this area. If an individual with this disorder fails to get the proper treatment, the symptoms can worsen over time. An individual with PTSD can potentially harm themselves or another person, if treatment is not sought.
I figured that this post would be timely because of the recent execution of DC Sniper (diagnosed with PTSD), John Allen Muhammad who served in the Gulf War. His ex-wife stated that she noticed a change him when he returned from the Gulf War. He became increasingly critical of her and began mentally abusing her. When she tried to leave him, he stalked her to the point where she had to change the locks in her home. While waiting for the locks to be changed, she stayed up all night for several nights armed with a knife for self-protection. When she relocated to the DC Area with her children, he followed her there. Shortly thereafter, the random shootings began. In this extreme situation, Muhammad’s symptoms appear to worsen and his abusive behavior escalates as time progresses.
Sources (Read more on PTSD at the links below!)
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 2
D.C. sniper’s ex-wife discusses domestic violence
