Question

Describe post traumatic stress disorder.

Describe post-traumatic stress disorder.

1. Meaning
2. Shock stage
3. Suggestible stage
4. Recovery stage

Write short note on the following in 50 to 60 words:

Three stages of post-traumatic stress disorder

Answer 1

If the symptoms of acute stress disorder continue for more than one month with the same intensity, i.e., without much improvement, the individual is diagnosed as suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If a person witnesses or experiences extreme situations such as the death of a loved one, serious physical injury, natural disaster, or sexual abuse, he or she may develop PTSD. Individuals may experience extreme fear, emotional numbness, severe confusion, and nightmares, which can lead to a lack of concentration and sleep. They may feel intense guilt over the event and blame themselves, leading to depression.

A person who has suffered trauma goes through three-stage.

1. Shock stage: The individual in this stage is extremely disturbed and is not able to think anything. He is in shock.
2. Suggestible stage: In this stage, the individual tries to find out how to get out of these circumstances by asking others or seeking guidance. In this stage, the individual gets extra sensitive towards suggestions given by others to the extent that he may accept any suggestion without thinking over its consequences.
3. Recovery stage: Though the individual is still under stress but has started regaining his mental balance. He/she is trying to get out of the situation and shows signs of recovery. However, some individuals still cannot maintain their mental balance and start showing signs of mental illness, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. 

The symptoms of PTSD include

1. nightmares, flashbacks, severe anxiety
2. hypervigilance and avoidance of situations that bring back the trauma
3. irritability, social isolation
4. survivour's guilt