Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating anxiety
disorder that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a
traumatic event that involves either a real or perceived threat
of injury or death. This can include a natural disaster, combat,
an assault, physical or sexual abuse, or other trauma. PTSD
sufferers have a heightened sense of danger and impending doom.
Their natural “fight or flight response” is damaged, causing
them to feel stressed or fearful even in safe situations. Once
called “shell shock” or “battle fatigue,” PTSD has recently
received more public attention because of the high number of war
veterans who have the disorder. However, PTSD can happen to
anyone at any age. PTSD occurs as a response to chemical changes
in the brain and is not the result of a character flaw or
weakness. (NIMH) The symptoms of PTSD can disrupt normal
activities and interfere with your ability to function. They can
be triggered by words, sounds, or situations that act as
reminders of trauma. Symptoms fall into