Trauma and Violence

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. This exposure can be from an event that happens to you, and event that you witness, or an event that you are told about (due to an effect known as ‘secondary trauma’).  Such events include violent personal assaults; natural disasters; terrorist attacks; motor vehicle accidents; rape, physical or sexual abuse, or other crimes; and military combat.

Those suffering from PTSD can have trouble functioning in their school, job, or personal relationships. Children can be traumatized and have difficulty in school, become isolated from others and develop phobias. Many people with PTSD repeatedly re-experience the ordeal in the form of flashback episodes, memories, nightmares, or frightening thoughts, especially when they are exposed to events or objects that remind them of the trauma. If you have experienced a trauma and are still struggling with these kinds of symptoms, call 314-516-5711 or come in to UMSL Counseling Services to talk about it.

Adapted from the AMA.