Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can develop after a person lives through or sees a terrible event, such as a bomb blast, fighting, violence, a serious accident or the sudden death of a loved one. The person keeps reliving the event, feels constantly on guard and avoids reminders of it. It is common in Afghanistan after decades of conflict. PTSD is a normal reaction to abnormal events, and it can be treated.
Symptoms
- Unwanted memories, flashbacks or nightmares about the event
- Feeling upset or afraid when something reminds you of it
- Avoiding places, people or talk linked to the event
- Being easily startled and always on guard
- Trouble sleeping and concentrating
- Anger, irritability or feeling numb and distant from others
- Feelings of guilt or shame
Causes
- Living through or seeing war, bombings or fighting
- Physical or sexual violence, including violence at home
- Serious accidents or natural disasters such as earthquakes
- Sudden or violent death of a loved one
- Repeated trauma, little support afterwards or other mental health problems raise the risk
Prevention
- After a frightening event, stay close to people you trust
- Talk about what happened when you feel ready; do not force yourself