Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Excerpt

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychiatric disorder that can result after an individual experiences a traumatic event. PTSD has a broad clinical presentation but is characterized by symptoms impairing cognition, mood, somatic experience, and behavior. PTSD can cause chronic impairments, lead to comorbid psychiatric illness, and lead to an increased risk of suicide.

PTSD was first included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) 3rd edition, published in 1980. The inclusion of PTSD in the DSM reflects the acknowledgment of the significant impact that exposure to traumatic events can have on an individual's mental health. The DSM criteria for PTSD involve experiencing a traumatic event, the presence of specific symptoms such as intrusive memories or nightmares, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in mood and cognition, and heightened arousal. The inclusion of PTSD in the DSM has contributed to better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals who have experienced trauma. The management of PTSD is complex, as each case of trauma is individualized, and specific symptoms of PTSD vary from case to case. Prevention and treatment methods involve psychological interventions as well as pharmacotherapy.