7 Most Common Events that Lead to PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, most commonly known as PTSD, is a mental health disorder triggered by traumatic events. While doctors don’t know for sure what causes this disorder, they do know that exposure to terrifying events can increase the risk of developing it. Here are some of the most common events that lead to PTSD.

Combat Exposure

When people think of PTSD, they think of the military. Therefore, it is no surprise that combat exposure is one of the most common things that can cause the development of this disorder. Soldiers experience a number of traumatic and stressful events during battle, including seeing dead, losing loved ones, being shot at/attacked/ambushed.

Childhood Abuse

Many people are often surprised to learn that abuse and trauma from childhood can lead to PTSD as an adult. Often it does not appear for many years. Early life trauma is a major risk factor for this disorder, whether it’s mental, sexual, or physical abuse as a child.

Sexual Violence

Did you know that women are actually twice as likely to develop PTSD compared to men? A major reason for this is that women are more likely to be a victim of sexual violence. Sexual assault, rape, and molestation are common factors that cause PTSD to develop.

Physical Assaults or Threats with a Weapon

Other common events that can increase one’s risk of developing PTSD are physical assaults or threats with a weapon. This can include events such as muggings, kidnapping, robbery, or threats at gunpoint.

Natural Disaster

Many people may not understand just how traumatic it can be to go through a major natural disaster. Hurricanes, floods, fires, and earthquakes can all be traumatic and trigger PTSD.

Accidents

A major accident can be a big cause of PTSD. Car crashes, plane crashes, explosions, or terrorist attacks are all traumatic. Many people don’t realize until later how these events impacted them.

Occupational Hazards

Although PTSD often associates with the military, there are many other careers that have high rates of this disorder. First responders, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and doctors have high rates of mental health issues. They face traumatic events quite regularly.

Dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Your Life

7 Things That can Lead to Post Traumatic Stress | Delray Center

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD please contact us.