War veterans, people, and children who have experienced any kind of physical or sexual assault, disaster, accident, abuse, or any other serious traumatic events are the ones who suffer from the posttraumatic stress disorder. Immediately people may not experience PTSD symptoms. Usually, within three months of the occurrence of the event, people may start experiencing PTSD symptoms. However, sometimes, it may take a year or more for the symptoms to show up.
PTSD symptoms include nightmares, flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. These symptoms may be grouped into four categories, which are avoidance, intrusive memories, changes in physical and emotional reactions, and negative changes in mood and thinking. These symptoms may last for a few months or even years and start interfering with the day-to-day life activities of patients. If the symptoms become chronic and stay for a longer duration, then the person should get medical help from professional healthcare providers specializing in PTSD.