POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS


The world we live in today is very fast paced and hectic.  People are more mobile and as a result are exposed to many more life
experiences and events.  The downfall to this can be that our opportunity to be exposed to terrifying ordeals or events can
increase substantially.  The likelihood of driving up on an accident or even having traumatic events occur in our own lives seems
to be increasing all of the time.  Exposure to these events can create physical and emotional problems known as Post Traumatic
Stress Syndrome or (PTSD).

PTSD  is an anxiety disorder that develops after exposure to terrifying events  that we have little or no control over. PTSD can
occur at any age and is typically a result of exposure to a traumatic even such as a murder, accident or sudden death.  The
events of September 11 and the Virgina Tech killings are examples of such tragedies.

The symptoms of PTSD include upsetting thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks or having strong mental or emotional reactions that
are triggered by thoughts or memories of an incident or series of incidents.  It is not uncommon for victims of physical or sexual
abuse to experience PTSD at some point in their lives.  The symptoms of PTSD include the following:


                                    *  Nightmares or disturbing thoughts (flashbacks)                        
                                     *  Being easily startled
                                     *  Feeling numb
                                     * Avoiding activities or events out of fear
                                     * Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
                                     * Angry outbursts/irrability

In addition to these emotional symptoms, some people also experience physical symptoms that include headaches,
gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, chest pain or nausea.  PTSD usually has identifiable triggers, and most people can identify an
issue or event, or a series of issues and events that are the source of their physical or emotional discomfort.  PTSD is a specific
form of anxiety disorder that can be successfully treated with medication and cognitive therapy.

If you or someone you know has experiences such a trauma, help is available.




                                                                  Family Service Inc
                                                        (605)336-1974/ (800) 589-1974
                                                                  (since 1959)