

If you have disturbing thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event for more than a month, if they're severe, or if you feel you're having trouble getting your life back under control, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Or you may see a report on the news about a sexual assault and feel overcome by memories of your own assault. For example, you may hear a car backfire and relive combat experiences. You may have more PTSD symptoms when you're stressed in general, or when you come across reminders of what you went through. PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time.

Frightening dreams that may or may not include aspects of the traumatic event.Re-enacting the traumatic event or aspects of the traumatic event through play.Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behaviorįor children 6 years old and younger, signs and symptoms may also include:.Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast.Symptoms of changes in physical and emotional reactions (also called arousal symptoms) may include: Difficulty experiencing positive emotionsĬhanges in physical and emotional reactions.Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.Feeling detached from family and friends.Difficulty maintaining close relationships.Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event.Negative thoughts about yourself, other people or the world.Symptoms of negative changes in thinking and mood may include: Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event.Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event.

