Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can develop after a person lives through or sees a terrible event, such as a bomb blast, fighting, violence, a serious accident or the sudden death of a loved one. The person keeps reliving the event, feels constantly on guard and avoids reminders of it. It is common in Afghanistan after decades of conflict. PTSD is a normal reaction to abnormal events, and it can be treated.
Symptoms
- Unwanted memories, flashbacks or nightmares about the event
- Feeling upset or afraid when something reminds you of it
- Avoiding places, people or talk linked to the event
- Being easily startled and always on guard
- Trouble sleeping and concentrating
- Anger, irritability or feeling numb and distant from others
- Feelings of guilt or shame
Causes
- Living through or seeing war, bombings or fighting
- Physical or sexual violence, including violence at home
- Serious accidents or natural disasters such as earthquakes
- Sudden or violent death of a loved one
- Repeated trauma, little support afterwards or other mental health problems raise the risk
Prevention
- After a frightening event, stay close to people you trust
- Talk about what happened when you feel ready; do not force yourself
- Keep daily routines, sleep and meals as normal as possible
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Seek help if distress has not eased after about a month
Treatment
- Trauma-focused talking therapy with a trained psychologist
- Learning ways to cope with stress, sleep and difficult memories
- Support from family and community
- Medicine prescribed by a doctor when symptoms are severe or there is also depression
- Do not use sleeping pills, tranquillisers or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Is it normal to feel shaken after a bomb blast or attack?
Yes. Fear, poor sleep and bad memories are common in the first weeks and often get better with time and support. If they last more than a month or get worse, it may be PTSD and help is available.
Can children get PTSD?
Yes. Children may show it through bedwetting, clinging to parents, nightmares, anger or playing out the event. A calm routine, reassurance and help from a health worker can help them recover.