Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychological and physical condition that can arise if you experience an event which you find particularly overwhelming, frightening or beyond your control. Generally, you will find that you recover from the horror of the event naturally overtime. However, sometimes this experience can stay with you for many months or even years: this is PTSD. It can arise immediately after the event or it might be many months before you start to experience any symptoms. PTSD is fairly common and you should not feel embarrassed or disappointed if you develop it. According to the NHS, PTSD affects around 30% of people who witness or experience a harrowing event.
The symptoms of PTSD can vary considerably but they commonly include:
- Avoidance – if you use any excuse to distract yourself from daily activities or a situation that may remind you of the event
- Nightmares and/or flashbacks
- Constantly being on guard and looking out for danger
- Feeling numb to your emotions and surroundings
- Addiction – you may turn to alcohol and/or drugs to deal with your feelings
- Depression
If you have suffered PTSD as a result of the negligence of another, for example witnessing military combat, being in a car accident or the victim of an attack, this can have a profound and devastating effect on you and those around you. You may find yourself unable to work and losing your enjoyment of life. If this is the case you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. If you suffer from PTSD please contact Foot Anstey to discuss your case further in a supportive and understanding environment.
