Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Military service alone does not increase your risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), though exposure to traumatic events does. These events can occur during peacetime, on deployment or in civilian life. PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after going through a scary or life-threatening event. This can occur due to events which threaten death, serious injury or sexual violence either directly or indirectly. If you have been exposed to trauma or traumatic events over time, such as living with a chronic illness or experiencing prolonged abuse, this may be considered complex PTSD Common Symptoms Symptoms typically begin within three months of the traumatic event, but they can occur years after an incident. These symptoms impact both personal and social functioning. To be clinically considered PTSD, symptoms need to be present for at least a month. If you experience a traumatic event or prolonged exposure to traumatic events, look out for these common symptoms of PTSD: Intrusive Memories Avoidance Negative Thoughts and Mood Swings Changes In the Way You React to Situation Experiencing recurring, unwanted memories of the event; flashbacks; and/or upsetting dreams or nightmares. Severe emotional distress or physical reactions. Avoiding think about and discussing the events, and/or places, activities or people that remind you of the event. Shift toward more pessimistic thinking (e.g., negative view on things). Hopelessness about the future. Poor memory. Difficulty maintaining relationships and connecting with others. Not feeling interested in activities you used to enjoy. Feeling numb and/or having a hard time feeling positive emotions. Easily startled or scared. Constantly on guard or looking out for danger me than normal. Increase in risky behaviors like excess drinking, speeding and gambling. Sleep problems. Trouble concentrating. Aggressive behavior. Feeling constant guilt or shame. Warfighter Risk Factors for PTSD Exposure to life-threatening events. Getting hurt or wounded in training or combat. Seeing others get hurt or wounded in training or combat. Increased risk for death or injury. Being away from home for long periods of time. Sexual trauma (harassment, abuse, etc.). History of mental illness or substance use. Childhood trauma. Maintaining Mission Readiness Check in with your fellow Warfighters frequently. If you are in a leadership position, check in with your subordinates from time to time. Build strong support systems (e.g., family, friends, support groups). Seek help, whether through a behavioral health provider or alternative methods such as sport or animal-based therapies. If prescribed, take medication as directed to help with symptoms. Additional Resources In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline (available 24/7). Services are free and confidential. National Center for PTSD Psychological Health Center of Excellence | Health.mil ReferencesMayo Clinic - “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder”Cleveland Clinic - “CPTSD (Complex PTSD)”Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)”
