Understanding Combat Trauma and PTSD Symptoms

If you’re reading this article you’ve likely been wondering, “What exactly is PTSD?” Let’s start with a specific definition. American Psychiatric Association defines post traumatic stress disorder as, “a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event.”

When it comes to combat veterans, these traumatic events are often experiences in war. As a result, veterans suffering from PTSD may find certain aspects of everyday life to be a triggering reminder of unpleasant memories.

What are Common Symptoms of PTSD?

Signs that you or a loved one are experiencing PTSD can be complex and range across a symptoms, but here are some of the most common signs of PTSD in veterans:

Flashbacks and Intrusive Thinking

Combat veterans with PTSD can often experience intrusive thoughts and memories that mentally transport them back to a traumatic event without them wanting to relive the memory.

Depression and Changes in Mood

Combat veterans with PTSD may experience a general sense of detachment in civilian life. While relationships with family and friends were once a familiar part of life, traumatic war experiences often keep them absorbed in negative thinking.