Service Dogs for Veterans

Understanding PTSD

PTSD symptoms often overlap with other psychological or emotional conditions, but are specifically triggered by exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or traumatic events.

For a formal diagnosis, symptoms must persist for more than a month and may include:

• Recurrent distressing memories of the traumatic event(s)
• Recurrent distressing dreams related to the traumatic event(s)
• Flashbacks in which the individual feels or acts as if the traumatic event(s) were recurring (may include complete loss of awareness of surroundings)
• Intense physical or psychological response to cues that symbolize or resemble the traumatic event(s)
• Avoidance of distressing memories or external reminders that trigger memories of the traumatic event(s)
• Inability to remember important aspects of the traumatic event(s) (dissociative amnesia)
• Persistent, exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world
• Persistent, distorted thoughts about the cause or consequences of the event, including blaming oneself
• Persistent negative emotional state (may include irritability or angry outbursts)
• Markedly diminished interest in significant activities
• Feelings of detachment from others
• Reckless or self-destructive behavior
• Hypervigilance (always being on one’s guard)
• Easily startled
• Problems concentrating
• Persistent inability to experience positive emotions