Post-traumatic stress disorder

A form of anxiety that develops after a stressful or frightening event. Common causes include natural disasters, violence, rape, torture, serious physical injury, and military combat. Symptoms, which may develop many months after the event, include recurring memories or dreams of the event, a sense of personal isolation, and disturbed sleep and concentration. There may be a deadening of feelings, or irritability and feelings of guilt, sometimes building up to depression. Most people recover, in time, with emotional support and counselling.

 

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