Question

What variation of things could increase someone’s risk of developing PTSD following a traumatic event? What things could help to prevent the development of PTSD?

Answer 1

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder refers to apprehensive flashbacks, recurrent dreams and painful emotions followed by a traumatic event. There are many factors that increase the risk for developing PTST.

1. Genetic endowment: Some people are born with neurotic personality traits and they perceive and interpret stressful situations in an exaggerated way. Such people after experiencing traumatic event, find any stressor beyond their coping ability.

2. Societal factors: Lack of social support (family and friends'ssupport) is more likely to increses the risk for developing PTSD. People who get support from their loved ones, find it easy to deal with stressful siuations.

3. Life Hassles:  Daily life hassles such as a chaotic family environment (abusive parents, marital discord), a rude boss, extra work pressure and financial crunch could also increase the risk of developing PTSD.

4. Avoidant Coping mechanism: People with avoidant coping strategies do not want to face their life problems and after experiencing a traumatic event if they don't seek solutions for stressful life situations, they start living in isolation and loose their social contacts which in turn only increase their risk for developing PTSD.  

Things that could help in preventing the development of PTSD are:

1. Increasing social contacts and finding support from friends and family members

2. Meditating regularily and practicing relaxation techniques.

3.Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

4. Creative writing or blogging

5. Sharing feelings with people dealing with similar situations.