There are many different causes of PTSD, such as sexual abuse, the sudden death of a loved one, and war. Trauma affects people in different ways, some may develop it from watching a comrade get killed, and others may develop it from losing their job or getting divorced. Receiving a PTSD diagnosis is a difficult process because there are many other psychological disorders whose symptoms may overlap and are very similar. An important fact to remember is that PTSD doesn't just affect the person suffering; it can also have side effects on their spouses, children, parents, friends, co-workers and other loved ones. Although there is no direct cure, there are many alternative treatments and treatment options to help them move forward after trauma. Definition PTSD is a debilitating mental illness that occurs when a person is exposed to a traumatic, dangerous, frightening, or life-threatening event. threatening event. “It’s an anxiety disorder that can interfere with your relationships, work and social life.” (Muscari, pp. 3-7) Trauma affects everyone in different ways. Everyone experiences a wide range of emotions after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, fear, sadness and depression, this can lead to changes in your daily life such as your sleeping and eating habits . Some people have recurring thoughts and nightmares about the event. In people with PTSD, their brains are still in overdrive long after the trauma. They may experience things like flashbacks, nightmares, hallucinations, panic attacks, and deep depression. They tend to avoid things that remind them of their trauma and are constantly on high alert waiting for the next possible traumatic event to occur; in events such as... middle of paper ...... harm, mistreatment of others, and suicide. There is a stigma surrounding seeking help for mental illness that needs to be broken. Mental illness should not be taken lightly, it is a serious problem. These people need real help; help they should be able to seek without having to worry about repercussions. Conclusion There are many traumatic life-altering events that can cause PTSD. To diagnose this disease, you must pass a series of tests that a psychologist will give you. These will record the symptoms you are experiencing in order to rule out other mental illnesses. PTSD can cause symptoms such as night terrors, flashbacks, and panic attacks. There are many forms of treatment such as therapy, medication and massage therapy. PTSD is very treatable, it is important to seek treatment if you have symptoms of a mental illness..