PTSD is not new. It has been discribed in the past under various names, among them Shell Shock, Battles Fatigue and Accident Neurosis. However, it was only in 1980 that it was fully discribed and recognised as a serious condition which many people suffer.

The disorder is not limited to those who have suffered in war. It affects hundreds of thousands of people who have been exposed to violent events such as rape, domestic violence, child abuse, natural disaster, political torture, serious accidents and other typed of major trauma. It is estimated that between 1% and 3% of our present population, male and female, have PTSD. Many, many others experience symptoms of PTS. (See PTS)

Initially PTS stmptoms may seem to be part of a normal response to an overwhelming experience. Only if these symptoms persist for more than three months do we speak of them being part of a disorder. It can be helpful to see that the line between distress and a disorder is a continuum, that is to say that if the symptoms do not reduce over time, either in frequency or intensity, they may evolve into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

PTSD symptoms fall into three categories:

1. Symptoms of Hyperarousal

2. Intrusive Symptoms

3. Symptoms of Avoidance

Hyperarousal is basically a persistent, exaggerated startle reaction which is initiated by a biological alarm whenever the individual feels threatened. For example, war veterans may dive for cover if they hear a car backfiring. Panic Attacks are a commonly experienced feature of Hyperarousal. Symptoms include feelings sweaty, trouble breathing and increased heart rate. During such an attack an individual experiences extreme fear, resembling that which he/she felt during the trauma.

Intrusive Symptoms occur when the past traumatic event intrudes into the individual's current life. Sometimes this can be a vivid memory accompanied by painful emotions. At other times there is simply a sudden onsalught of pure emotion which seems to have no cause, leaving the sufferer tearful, frightened or angry. Sometimes the memory is so strong that the individual thinks he or she is actually experiencing the trauma again. This type of vivid re-experience is called a "flashback". At other times the re-experience occurs in nightmares.

Avoidance Symptoms An individual with PTSD will avoid places, situations and people that are some way reminders of the original trauma.

Over time people can become so fearful of particular situations that there daily lives are ruled by attempts to avoid them. Such a person feels numb, has diminished emotions and can complete only routine, machanical activities. He/she is often lacking in energy, since this is spent suppressing the flood of emotions, and may appear cold, bored or preoccupied. Relationships with others are inevitably affected, and family and friends often feel re-buffed by the individual's apperant lack of effection and mechanical behaviour.

Although depression is not symptom of PTSD, it commonly occurs alongside other symptoms. Sufferers may also increase their use of alcohol or precribed drugs, or be at risk from self-harm or suicide.

Treatment.

Pharmacologial treatment is available to combat the symptoms of PTSD, and effective psychological treatments exist to treat the disorder. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is often the treatment of choice, although other types of treatment are also available. The other types of treatment are also available. The earlier the treatment is recieved the more likelihood of a full recovery. Therapy helps the sufferer to regain a sence of safety and control, so that the power of past events over current experience is diminished. Suport and understanding and patience from loved ones is also crucial. Treatment normally takes place on an outpatient basis, although occasionally inpatient treatment is neccessary, particularly if inter-related problems exist.

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Post Traumatic Stress Sufferers and System abuse Victims Steering Group,

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