What is Trauma and PTSD?

• Trauma is a strong emotional response following a highly stressful or traumatic event. Over 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives.

• PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a trauma or high-stress event. Approximately 3.6% of Americans are currently living with PTSD.

Rates of Trauma and PTSD in Specific Populations

• For Veterans, about 7% will experience PTSD at some point, with higher rates for female Veterans.

• Among first responders (paramedics, police, firefighters), roughly 1 in 3 may develop PTSD, a significantly higher rate than the general population.

Symptoms of Trauma and PTSD

• Intrusive Symptoms: This involves feeling like the trauma or high-stress event is happening again, through flashbacks, nightmares, or vivid images.

• Avoidance of Reminders: Trying to avoid places, people, or thoughts that bring back memories of the traumatic event.

• Frequent Negative Emotions and Thoughts: Persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or anger; self-blame or blaming others; and negative changes in beliefs about oneself or the world.

• Changes in Arousal and Reactivity (Hypervigilance): This includes being easily annoyed or angry, engaging in risky behaviors, having trouble concentrating, and difficulty sleeping. Hypervigilance means being overly watchful and easily startled.

How Trauma and PTSD Can Impact Your Life

Trauma can lead to persistent negative feelings and thoughts, potentially resulting in chronic PTSD. Avoiding reminders of the trauma can make it difficult to fully recover. Trauma and PTSD can severely affect mood, leading to ongoing sadness, anxiety, or irritability. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or nightmares, are common. Daily functioning, including performance at work or school, can be challenging, and relationships with loved ones may suffer due to behavioral and emotional changes.

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