5 Common Types Of Trauma That Can Cause PTSD
When most of us think of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), we associate it with major, life-changing events. While these events can cause PTSD, it can also occur as a result of moments in our life that aren’t as drastic or traumatic.
Sometimes just the memory of something can be so distressing it starts to hinder our lives, but because we think PTSD only occurs with ‘real’ trauma, we ignore the symptoms until we can’t anymore. Below are certain incidents that could lead to PTSD developing.
- Serious motor vehicle accidents
Being involved in a serious car accident raises your risk of developing PTSD, especially if you experienced psychological difficulties before the accident, were put in a life-threatening situation or lost a loved one. Symptoms include avoiding driving or travelling, having flashbacks and feeling on edge or anxious when being in a car.
- Experiencing natural disasters (bushfires, tsunamis, earthquakes, etc)
Natural disasters are a common cause of PTSD, worsened by the relatively short period in which they usually occur. Natural disasters involve sudden widespread devastation that can traumatise a significant amount of people at the same time. If major loss of life or possessions occurs, then it can exacerbate the likely subsequent trauma.
- War trauma
Those living in a war zone or fighting in one are more at risk of developing PTSD. Conflict situations rip communities and families apart and lead to long-term physical and psychological damage. According to the World Health Organisation, 10% of those who experience traumatic events during a war are at risk of developing symptoms that will impede their ability to function normally. These symptoms include depression, insomnia and anxiety.
- Sexual assault
Sexual assault is another trigger that raises the odds of a person developing PTSD. Victims who struggle to cope in the aftermath, and those who suffer from victim blaming that uniquely occurs with this type of crime, can lead to hiding that it occurred or not dealing with it in the appropriate manner due to shame.
- Terrorist attacks
A study published in the Lancet suggests that one in 10 victims of terror attacks still suffer PTSD symptoms within 10 years following the event. People living with PTSD include not only direct victims, but their families, people who may have witnessed or been at the scene of the event and the emergency medical personnel first on the scene.
PTSD can be treated through a combination of behaviour therapy, cognitive therapy and medications. If you need help in dealing with any PTSD or depression, Psylegal can give you confidential assistance through our proven trauma counselling program. Get in contact with us today.