Trauma refers to a distressing or life-threatening event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope and disrupts their sense of safety and well-being. Traumatic events can include physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, combat experiences, or witnessing violence. When individuals are exposed to such events, they may develop a psychological condition known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

PTSD is a specific type of anxiety disorder that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is characterized by a range of symptoms that persist beyond the initial trauma, impacting a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event, nightmares, intense distress or emotional reactions when exposed to triggers associated with the trauma, avoidance of reminders or discussions related to the event, negative changes in beliefs or mood, and heightened arousal or hypervigilance. Individuals with PTSD may also experience difficulties with concentration, sleep disturbances, irritability, and an exaggerated startle response.