Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD, is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. When in danger, it’s natural to feel afraid, and this fear triggers many split-second changes in the body to prepare to defend against the danger or to avoid it. This “fight-or-flight” response is a healthy reaction meant to protect a person from harm. But in PTSD, this reaction is changed or damaged. People who have PTSD may feel stressed or frightened even when they’re no longer in danger.

• Experiencing sleeping problems, including bad dreams
• Staying away from places, events, or objects that are reminders of the experience
• Feeling strong guilt, depression, or worry
• Losing interest in activities that were enjoyable in the past
• Feeling detached or numb
• Being easily startled