PTSD & Adjustment Disorder
Stressful or traumatic events can change our lives forever. Sometimes, we can work through them successfully and come out as a stronger person. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Some traumatic experiences are too overwhelming to cope with. Trauma sometimes leaves an enduring mental wound that does not heal easily. Unfortunately, stress and trauma are very common and badly affects one in every 15 Australians .
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs after devastating traumas such as sexual abuse, serious threats, physical assault, road accidents, natural disasters, war, or terrorist attacks. Typically, people with PTSD have been petrified by the trauma and can't get over it. They tend to relive the past experience over and over, even years after the actual trauma. The common symptoms are frequent flashbacks and nightmares of the traumatic experience. People with PTSD tend to avoid anything that reminds them of the past issues. They may become sensitive, nervous, and withdrawn.
Adjustment disorder is another stress-related illness that occurs during stressful patches such as work issues, divorce, personal loss, financial crisis, or severe physical illnesses. Adjustment disorder is when a person can't cope with an ongoing stress anymore; and becomes depressed, stressed-out, or abrupt. People with adjustment disorder often dwell on their problem a lot and can't take their mind off.
Stress may have a significant impact on the mind and body. Some may lose their concentration, become absent-minded, and develop aches and pains. Others may not be able to work anymore and become socially withdrawn. It's not uncommon to become significantly depressed, angry, or suicidal due to stress or trauma. Many don't talk about their problems, bottle up their feelings, and even blame themselves for the issue. Alcohol and drug abuse as well as poor social support can make it harder to recover.
Stress-related illnesses are treatable. Please read Self-Help and Treatment.
If you feel that you or your loved ones are at risk, then please click Here.
You can read more about PTSD at RCPsych (UK).