Acute PTSD resolves after three months, with a chronic form of the disorder persisting past that time. PTSD can occur at any age and can follow a natural disaster such as flood or fire, a man-made disaster such as war or imprisonment, assault, domestic abuse or rape. The causes of PTSD are not known, but psychological, genetic, physical, and social factors may contribute to its development. PTSD alters the body's response to stress, effecting mediators such as stress hormones and neurotransmitters. Prior exposure to trauma may increase risk, suggesting a kind of learned response.
Social support appears to play a protective role.
In studies of Vietnam veterans, those with strong support systems were less likely to develop PTSD than those without social support. Prevention Early counseling and crisis intervention are important for people who have experienced extremely stressful situations. These interventions may help prevent chronic forms of PTSD and should be part of public health responses to groups at risk such as disaster victims. Psychiatric and physical examinations are completed to rule out other disorders. All Rights Reserved.