What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to one or more terrifying events in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. It is a severe and ongoing emotional reaction to an extreme psychological trauma.

People with PTSD have persistent frightening thoughts and memories of their ordeal and feel emotionally numb, especially with people they were once close to. They may experience sleep problems, feel detached or numb, or be easily startled. (Definition from NIMH, The National Institute of Mental Health )

According to the National Center for PTSD, "Treatments developed through research help many people with PTSD deal effectively with their symptoms. Studies show that people can improve with cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, psychoeducation, or exposure therapy. Support from family and friends can also be an important part of recovery. [...] There is also a great deal of current research on medications for PTSD with some very promising preliminary results. Studies have shown that medication may help ease associated symptoms of depression and anxiety and help promote sleep."

If you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD, take heart, there is hope! Recovery

Helpful Resources:

-Gateway to PTSD Information
-National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Inspirational Resources (Art, Poetry, Blogs, Music, Photography etc.):

-Gift From Within
-Photographic Thoughts

Spiritual Abuse Recovery Resources:

-Cult Awareness and Information Center
-Survivors of Spiritual Abuse (SOSA)

Resources for Temple Students:

-Tuttleman Counselling Center (Main Campus)
-Psychological Services (Ambler Campus)

Courage

If you have considered, or are now considering suicide, STOP NOW AND CALL 1-800-SUICIDE ( 1-800-784-2433 ) , OR 911

Click here to find a SUICIDE HOTLINE in your area (USA)
Click here for a list of CRISIS HOTLINES (Trinidad and Tobago)