Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Risk Factors, Treatment and Prevention - A Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction and objective. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental disturbance that is a reaction to an extremely stressful event (trauma) that exceeds a person's ability to cope and adapt. Such events include acts of war, disasters, natural disasters, traffic accidents, being a victim of assault, rape, harassment, abduction, torture, imprisonment in a concentration camp, severe, difficult experiences after taking psychoactive substances, receiving a diagnosis of a life-threatening illness. Typical PTSD symptoms include anxiety, exhaustion, feelings of helplessness, recurring, violent involuntary memories of the traumatic event, flashbacks, hallucinations or nightmares related to the trauma, and avoidant behaviour in situations associated with the trauma. Treatment of PTSD, depending on the severity and persistence of symptoms, may include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. The aim of this study is to systematise information on this condition and raise awareness of this issue among healthcare professionals and patients.