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.
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.
PTSD flashbacks can occur during waking life
Symptoms can take the form of painful dreams or night tremors
Veterans can experiences physical reactions like heightened levels the stress hormone cortisol
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.
Loss of interest in activities and relationships
Feeling hopeless even after returning from combat
Sadness and feeling numb
Inability to enjoy the present
Difficulty relating to family and friends