Post traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health condition that develops after a person has experienced a traumatic or frightening event. While most people feel afraid during and after a traumatic experience, those who have PTSD continue to feel fear long after the event is over and they are no longer in danger. Some people may experience spontaneous flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, recurrent dreams causing marked emotional distress.

Not everyone who experiences PTSD has been in danger. Some people develop symptoms of PTSD after the sudden death of a loved one, or other unexpected trauma. Help is available to navigate through these challenging times.