What Causes PTSD?
Going through or witnessing a traumatic event can affect your life deeply, and most people will experience something traumatic over the course of their lives. However, not everyone who goes through a traumatic event will develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Research shows that approximately one in three people will develop PTSD as a result of trauma. Understanding what causes PTSD and who might be at higher risk can help you recognize when it is time to seek support.
Events That Can Lead to PTSD
PTSD can develop after exposure to various traumatic experiences. Below are some examples of experiences that can lead to PTSD:
being involved in or witnessing serious accidents
discrimination, such as racism, homophobia, or transphobia
experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty
living in a country affected by war or genocide
ongoing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
serious health problems requiring intensive hospital care
sexual or physical assault
surviving a natural disaster
the unexpected death of someone you care about
What Makes PTSD More Likely to Develop?
Certain factors can increase the likelihood that a traumatic event will result in PTSD. For example, you may be more likely to develop PTSD if the traumatic event was unexpected, such as a sudden death, or if it happened over an extended period of time. Other factors, such as severe bodily harm, major loss, or the involvement of children, can also play a role.
There are also individual risk factors to consider. You are more likely to develop PTSD if you have previously experienced anxiety or depression or have a family history of mental health struggles. A lack of emotional support from others or a highly stressful life can also contribute to the likelihood of developing PTSD.
Why PTSD Develops
Some experts believe PTSD develops as a survival mechanism. After trauma, your nervous system remains on high alert, and this hyperarousal causes you to perceive danger in similar experiences as a way of protecting you from future harm. Flashbacks might be your brain’s maladaptive way of preparing you in case the event happens again.
Trauma can also physically alter your brain structure. It can reduce the size of the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for processing memory and emotions. This change can leave you feeling stuck in the traumatic experience, unable to move forward.
What You Can Do After Experiencing Trauma
Healing from trauma isn’t an easy or straightforward path. However, there are some steps you can take to encourage the healing process.
Acknowledge What You Went Through
Pushing away your feelings after going through something traumatic will only make you feel worse. Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up, such as fear, shame, anxiety, and sadness. There’s no wrong way to react.
Ground yourself
It’s important to develop grounding techniques to control your stress levels. Breathe deeply and focus on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and feel.
Rely on Your Support System
Leaning on family and friends for emotional support is crucial. You do not have to face this alone. Talking with people you trust about what you’re going through can provide comfort and perspective during difficult moments.
Be Self-Compassionate
Taking care of yourself through this process matters. Be patient with yourself as you navigate recovery. Healing from trauma takes time, and everyone’s journey looks different. It’s okay to have good days and bad days.
Getting Professional Help
If you have experienced trauma, reaching out for trauma counseling is one of the most important steps you can take. Working with a therapist who specializes in trauma can help you process your experiences and develop healthy coping strategies.
We understand how challenging it can be to live with the effects of trauma. If you are struggling with symptoms of PTSD, we invite you to contact us. Together, we can work toward healing and help you reclaim your sense of safety and peace.