People with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder may experience a combination of symptoms, commonly grouped into five areas:
- Intrusive memories (flashbacks, nightmares, distressing thoughts)
- Avoidance of reminders related to the trauma
- Negative changes in thoughts and mood (fear, guilt, detachment, low mood)
- Changes in physical and emotional reactions (hypervigilance, irritability, sleep issues)
- Emotional numbing or feeling disconnected from oneself or others
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go over time.