Rescuer Reactions (2 of 2)

Rescuer Reactions (2 of 2)

• Post traumatic stress
• Depression
• Flashbacks

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop after a person is exposed to one or more traumatic events, such as sexual assault, warfare, serious injury, or threats of imminent death. 

The diagnosis may be given when a group of symptoms, such as disturbing recurring flashbacks, avoidance or numbing of memories of the event, and hyper arousal, continue for more than a month after the occurrence of a traumatic event.

Most people having experienced a traumatizing event will not develop PTSD.  Women are more likely to experience higher impact events, and are also more likely to develop PTSD than men. 

Children are less likely to experience PTSD after trauma than adults, especially if they are under ten years of age.  War veterans are commonly at risk for PTSD.

Ways to deal with PTSD

• Discussing your feelings after an event is helpful way to minimize these affects and relieving anxiety.