According to a study survey in 2014 by adult psychiatric morbidity survey found around 4 in 100 people suffer from PTSD at some stage in the lives.

This means that (as noted by the NHS) PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity or social status.

Symptoms of PTSD can include:

flashbacks, nightmares or frightening thoughts
sweating and shaking
avoidance of reminders of the event and a refusal to discuss the experience
numbness and feelings of estrangement or detachment from others
inability to remember aspects of the traumatic event
decreased interest in life
increased consciousness of one’s own mortality
flight/fight syndrome
problems with concentration
problems with sleeping
irritability or outbursts of anger
hyper-vigilance and alertness to possible danger
re-experiencing the traumatic event
feelings of guilt

PTSD often involves periods of symptom remission followed by an increase of symptoms. However, some people will experience severe and unremitting symptoms.

“Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is used to describe a range of psychological symptoms which can follow traumatic events. PTSD can be triggered by anything that consciously, or unconsciously, reminds an individual of a specific trauma in their lives,” Stephen Buckley, head of information at Mind, tells Stylist.co.uk. “Symptoms can include vivid flashbacks, nightmares, lack of sleep and feeling emotionally cut-off.”

Seeking support is crucial in coping with PTSD.

Buckley says: “We would advise anyone who thinks they might be experiencing a mental health problem to seek support – speak to a friend or family member, visit your GP or call the Mind infoline on 0300 123 3393 for more information.”

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