PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) or stress from traumatic events, severe incidents that deeply affect the mind. Learn how to recognize symptoms and warning signs of PTSD such as flashbacks, nightmares, mood swings, as well as the impact on the brain and memory, along with advice on mental recovery for returning to normal life.
If we experience a traumatic event that causes emotional shock or stress, we may wonder whether the stress we are facing is just temporary or something more severe. Let’s get to know PTSD or stress from traumatic events, which can affect mental health in the long term. Being aware of symptoms or warning signs can help us decide whether it is time to consult a doctor.
What is PTSD after an accident?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental condition that occurs after a person experiences a stressful, frightening, or severely traumatic event such as an accident, disaster, loss of a family member or loved one, or assault. This condition can occur not only in those directly affected but also indirectly, such as when someone close experiences loss or goes through a traumatic event.
Risk factors for developing PTSD
- Experiencing a severe traumatic event that deeply affects the mind, such as accidents, natural disasters, physical assault, sexual abuse, sudden loss of a loved one, or repeatedly witnessing or consuming news of violent events.
- Personality traits that are pessimistic or have been conditioned to fear certain things excessively.
- Pre-existing mental health issues such as a history of depression or anxiety disorders.
- Lack of social support and a good environment with no strong social network, family, or close friends to provide help and advice.
- Substance or alcohol use that interferes with brain functions related to managing stress or feelings of insecurity.
- Genetic or biological factors causing abnormal brain function in areas controlling chemicals and hormones that respond to stress.
Differences between PTSD and general stress
| Characteristic | PTSD | General Stress |
| Cause | Clear triggering event | Financial problems, personal issues, work problems, daily life pressures |
| Symptoms | Re-experiencing or flashbacks of the event, nightmares, unlike general stress which is usually related to current or future worries | Irritability, anxiety, headaches, stomachaches, sleep problems |
| Duration | Lasts more than 1 month and affects daily life | Short-term, manageable with behavioral changes or relaxation |
| Impact | Affects work, relationships, and happiness | Minor impact on daily life |
| Management | Requires systematic psychological treatment such as therapy and mental support | Behavioral adjustment, relaxation, and stress management help |
PTSD symptoms to watch for
PTSD can manifest in various ways. If you experience symptoms like the following, you should consult a doctor or mental health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Repeated flashbacks as if reliving the event, causing intense fear and anxiety. These may occur unintentionally, triggered by sounds or images that remind you of the event.
- Nightmares and hallucinations related to the event, causing fear and anxiety, leading to fatigue and difficulty concentrating in daily life.
- Avoidance of reminders of the event, such as not talking about the event or feelings, which may cause feelings of isolation or reluctance to participate in previously enjoyed activities.
- Changes in perception and mood such as irritability, self-blame, worsening relationships, or communication problems with others.
- Altered arousal and response including irritability, being easily startled, restlessness, excessive vigilance, lack of concentration, sleep problems, fatigue, and reduced ability to work or perform activities effectively.
- Negative outlook feeling unhappy, life feels bleak, loss of interest in activities, and feeling disconnected from others.
Additionally, other complications may occur such as mental health issues like depression, anxiety disorders, or physical symptoms like stomach pain, headaches, and chest pain.
Impact of PTSD on the brain, memory, and related symptoms
Understanding the impact on the brain and memory helps us manage and treat PTSD effectively. The affected brain areas cause important symptoms and effects as follows:
- Abnormalities in the Prefrontal Cortex, the front part of the brain responsible for reasoning and emotion regulation.
- Changes or shrinkage in the Hippocampus, affecting learning ability, memory of events, and linking events.
- Dysfunction of the Amygdala, causing panic and anxiety when exposed to triggers that remind the patient of the event, increasing fear and stress.
- Changes in brain neurotransmitters and hormones such as decreased cortisol and increased norepinephrine levels, affecting stress response and increasing anxiety and stress.
- Patients may have intrusive memories like flashbacks or nightmares about the event, causing severe anxiety and fear.
- Partial memory loss as a self-protection mechanism from psychological pain, where patients try to avoid recalling distressing events.
Therapy techniques and treatment for PTSD symptoms
- Psychotherapy
- Exposure Therapy helps patients face feared events safely to reduce fear and anxiety, enabling better control and coping with fear.
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) uses eye movements to process traumatic memories, an effective and faster treatment method than others.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients understand and change negative thoughts, focusing on modifying inappropriate thoughts and behaviors to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Antidepressant medication such as SSRIs or SNRIs to help alleviate symptoms.
- Group Therapy offers patients the chance to join therapy groups with others who have experienced similar events, reducing feelings of isolation and providing support, including involving family and close friends in treatment through social networks.
- Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and anxiety, and progressive muscle relaxation to relieve muscle tension caused by stress.
- Behavioral adjustments like exercise, healthy eating, and adequate rest help reduce mental stress and restore fatigue. Avoiding substances and alcohol that may worsen symptoms is also important.
If you or someone close to you is experiencing stress after a traumatic event and are unsure if it is PTSD, timely and proper consultation for stress management can effectively restore mental health. Please do not hesitate to see a doctor at Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital. We have a team of experienced doctors, psychiatrists, and psychologists ready to provide consultation and care for both physical and mental health, including PTSD, to help you regain a balanced and quality life.
Dr. Ornphailin Rattanapinsiri
Psychiatrist, Let’s Talk Center
Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital
