Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD)

An anxiety disorder in which symptoms develop following a psychologically distressing event that is outside the normal range of human experiences (military combat, sexual assault, natural disasters, severe auto accidents). The essential features of PTSD include increased arousal, re-experiencing of a traumatic event, and avoidance of stimuli associated with the traumatic event. The symptoms include continued flashbacks, nightmares, and intense distress when exposed to an object or situation that is related to the traumatic event.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is also referred to as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.