Abstract

POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER – AN OVERVIEW

Kajal Varma, Gayathri Paturi, Juluri Sumana Sri, Gopireddy Shiva Reddy and Rajashekar P.*

ABSTRACT

PTSD is a psychological condition induced by attesting or witnessing traumatic events like violence, abuse, accidents, terrorism, or warfare. It involves three main aspects: reliving the trauma through distressing memories or flashbacks, avoiding reminders of the event, and heightened arousal. These events can affect up to 90% of susceptible individuals, leading to significant psychological distress. The evolution of PTSD diagnosis is discussed, from its introduction in the DSM-III in 1980 to the current DSM-5 criteria, which include four core features: intrusion, active avoidance, adverse changes in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal symptoms. Studies demonstrate a high prevalence of PTSD among internally displaced persons and survivors of war, with rates reaching as high as 68.9% in certain populations. The occurrence of PTSD is influenced by various factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status and the nature of trauma encountered. The review places a strong emphasis on closing the treatment gap for
mental health illnesses worldwide and incorporating mental health services into trauma care. Patient decision aids can help with outcomes, and psycho education is essential. Psychotherapies centred on trauma have been shown to be beneficial over time. It is customary to prescribe SSRIs and SNRIs as treatments for PTSD. The reader will have a better understanding of PTSD from this review, as well as improved ability to identify and manage the syndrome and appreciate the internist's role in treating PTSD.

Keywords: PTSD, Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, DSM-III.