Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may develop after experiencing a traumatic event, such as war, a hurricane, rape, physical abuse or a bad accident. Although, not everyone with PTSD has been through a dangerous event. A sudden, unexpected loss of a loved-one can also cause PTSD. It can make you feel stressed and afraid even after the danger is over.

PTSD can cause symptoms such as:

Flashbacks, or feeling like the event is happening again

Trouble sleeping or nightmares

Feeling alone

Angry outbursts

Feeling worried, guilty or sad

PTSD starts at different times for different people. Signs of PTSD may start soon after a frightening event and then continue. Other people develop new or more severe signs months or even years later. PTSD can happen to anyone, even children.

Some resiliency factors to help reduce the risk of PTSD may include seeking support from friends, family, or a support group, developing a positive coping strategy, and being able to act and respond effectively despite feeling fear.