A song, perfume, a street, or maybe fireworks. To many, these things seem harmless. But to people dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a certain song, a particular smell, a specific street, or the bright boom of fireworks may trigger uncomfortable — sometimes devastating — memories of a time or experience they’ve lived through.
However, there’s help available for those battling with PTSD. Those dealing with the condition can be treated to manage their triggers and symptoms and have the chance to live a more peaceful life.
In this article, we explore what PTSD is, the types of trauma it can be linked to, and how it’s treated.
Frequently asked questions
Is PTSD a serious mental illness?
Is PTSD a serious mental illness?
Serious Mental Illness (SMI) is defined as someone over the age of 18 who has/had a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder that causes serious functional impairment that substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. PTSD could be considered an SMI if it reaches that threshold and is confirmed by a licensed mental health professional.
How do I know if I’m traumatized?
How do I know if I’m traumatized?
You can be traumatized by any event. However, you may not reach the criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD. Only a licensed mental health professional can assess and determine if a PTSD diagnosis is appropriate.
What is acute stress disorder?
What is acute stress disorder?
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, acute stress disorder (ASD) is a mental health condition that can occur in the first month after a traumatic event. The symptoms of ASD are like PTSD symptoms, but you must have them for longer than one month to have PTSD.
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Article Sources
Article Sources
• Acute Stress Disorder. (n.d.). U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Are some kinds of trauma worse than others? (n.d.). Mental Health America.
• DSM-5 Criteria for PTSD. (2018, February 22). Brainline.
• Peer Support Groups. (n.d.). U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. (2023, May). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
• What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? (2022, November). American Psychiatric Association
