Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

If you have witnessed or lived through a trauma or life-threatening event, you may experience Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, also known as PTSD.

Who can experience PTSD?

Anyone who has witnessed or experienced:

• A serious accident
• Past or present violence or abuse
• Death or serious illness of a loved one
• Natural disasters such as fires, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, or hurricanes
• A terrorist attack, military combat, or any other frightening event

How can I tell if I have PTSD?

Possible signs include:

• Re-experiencing the event through nightmares or flashbacks triggered by cues that remind you of the event
• Avoidance of people or situations that remind you of the event or avoidance of talking about the event
• Having difficulty expressing your feelings, avoiding people or activities that you used to enjoy
• Having difficulty remembering parts of the event
• Feeling jumpy or jittery
• Being more fearful for your safety; always alert and looking for possible danger
• Having trouble concentrating or being easily startled
• Being suddenly angry or irritated and/or having trouble sleeping

Other common problems that can be the result of PTSD:

• Physical symptoms
• Drug or alcohol use or abuse
• Feeling hopeless or ashamed
• Loss of employment
• Trouble with relationships

Counselors can assist you with identifying symptoms and supporting you in developing new coping strategies to help you function in your everyday life. Although talking about a traumatic experience may sound painful, many people that participate in counseling find that doing so facilitates the healing they need.

If you are concerned that you may be experiencing PTSD, contact MTSU Counseling Services at 615-898-2670 or come to our office in Keathley University Center room 329. If your needs are immediate and it is outside of our office hours, 8am - 4:30pm Monday through Friday, please refer to our emergency phone numbers .