PTSD Behavior Checklist

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is an anxiety disorder that occurs after a traumatic event, according to the Mayo Clinic. The event may have happened directly to you, or you may have watched it happen to someone else, or a group of people, triggering strong fear, terror or helplessness. Symptoms of PTSD usually manifest themselves within three months of the event. These symptoms can come and go but tend to become less intense with time. They are usually grouped into three categories: intrusive memories, avoidance or numbing behavior, and anxiety.

Intrusive Memories

After a traumatic event, many people experience flashbacks of the event, or feeling like they are reliving the event. Another symptom can be having dreams about the event that are emotionally upsetting. Sometimes it may even feel like you are reliving a traumatic event, especially after being "triggered" by seeing or hearing something that reminds you of the event.

Avoidance and Numbing Behavior

People struggling with PTSD often try to avoid thinking about the traumatic event and try to numb themselves instead of feeling emotion about the event or thinking about the event. You may feel "emotionally numb, feel hopeless about your life or future, have trouble concentrating or focusing, avoid things you used to like, and you may have difficulty in your close relationships," according to the Mayo Clinic.

Anxiety and Heightened Emotion

Your anxiety may manifest itself in irritability or anger, strong feelings of guilt or shame, "acting out" behavior like binge drinking, insomnia, hypervigilance--becoming easily startled, very aware of what is going on around you. Sometimes you may be fearful of your safety and feel like you're "on edge," according to the National Center for PTSD.

Coping and Recovery

If PTSD symptoms are having a negative impact on your life, a health care professional can reduce the symptoms and help you cope with them. Rest when you need to, and even though medications or therapy may take some time to work, many people find that they help.