Post traumatic anxiety disorder is also known as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is an anxiety disorder that can develop after a person undergoes a traumatic event. Many people associate this disorder with military personnel, but it can affect anyone who has experienced an intense trauma. In fact, according to HelpGuide.org, most people who have experienced a traumatic event will have at least some of the symptoms of PTSD without developing the disorder itself. However, if a person is experiencing PTSD symptoms that seem to get worse, this can be a sign that professional help is needed.
Intrusive Memories
People with post traumatic anxiety disorder may have frequent flashback episodes where they feel or act like the traumatic event is happening again in the present time. These flashbacks are typically uncontrollable and cause intense distress, according to the Mayo Clinic, and cause many physical reactions in the body. These physical reactions can include rapid breathing, pounding heart, nausea, sweating and muscle tension.
Avoidance and Emotional Numbing
Another common occurrence of post traumatic anxiety disorder is trying to completely avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event, according to HelpGuide.org. In doing so, people may consciously or unconsciously avoid activities that were once pleasurable and begin feel a general loss of interest in life in general. This may cause symptoms like feeling hopeless about the future, feeling emotionally numb, experiencing difficulty maintaining relationships or having a sense of a limited future.
Increased Emotional Arousal
Whether a person with post traumatic anxiety disorder is experiencing flashbacks or working hard to suppress feelings, it is common to experience an increase in emotional arousal, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some of the emotions that may occur include irritability, anger, guilt, shame, fear, difficulty concentrating, hypervigilance or feeling easily startled.
Other Symptoms
If people with post traumatic anxiety disorder fail to manage their feelings, other symptoms may develop, according to HelpGuide.org. Substance abuse, depression, feelings of mistrust or betrayal, headaches, stomach problems, chest pains and even suicidal thoughts may occur. If there's any indication of suicidal thoughts, seek help from a mental health professional immediately.
