Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A condition that develops after exposure to a traumatic event, involving intrusive memories, avoidance, and hyperarousal.

Biological: Dysregulation of HPA axis, increased amygdala activity.

Psychological: Prior trauma, negative appraisal, dissociation.

Social: Lack of support, childhood adversity, ongoing violence.

T - Traumatic event exposure (direct or witnessed)

R - Re-experiencing via flashbacks, nightmares

A - Avoidance of reminders

U - Unfavorable mood and cognitions (guilt, detachment)

M - Marked changes in arousal/reactivity (e.g., irritability, sleep issues)

A - At least 1 month of duration

CBT: Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy.

EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.

Pharmacotherapy: SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, paroxetine).

Psychoeducation and support groups.

F43.10

~6.8% lifetime prevalence in the U.S.; more common in women.