What are common symptoms of PTSD?

Common symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) prominently include intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. These symptoms manifest as persistent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event that can cause significant distress, and flashbacks where individuals relive the experience as if it is happening in the present moment. This is typical of PTSD, where the individual struggles to process and integrate the traumatic experience, leading to intense emotional reactions.

The presence of these symptoms often disrupts daily life, causing heightened anxiety, avoidance behaviors, and emotional numbing. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for recognizing PTSD in individuals, especially within the context of perinatal mental health, as trauma related to childbirth or experiences of loss can lead to PTSD in new parents. Recognizing these symptoms allows for timely intervention and support.