Complex PTSD. The diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ) accurately describes the symptoms that result when a person experiences a short-lived trauma. For example, car accidents, natural disasters, and rape are considered traumatic events of time-limited duration. Complex PTSD, however, is the result of long-term trauma. These are chronic traumas that continue for months or even years at a time. The reason complex PTSD is separated from PTSD is that doctors and researchers have found that the current PTSD diagnosis often does not capture the severe psychological harm that occurs with such prolonged, repeated trauma. During long-term traumas, the victim is generally held in a state of captivity. Examples of captivity include: Concentration camps Prisoner of war (POW) camps Prostitution brothels Long-term domestic violence Long-term, severe physical abuse Child sexual abuse Organized child exploitation rings. NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness - Mental Health Support, Education and Advocacy.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) What is Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? When in danger, it’s natural to feel afraid. This fear triggers many split-second changes in the body to prepare to defend against the danger or to avoid it. This “fight-or-flight” response is a healthy reaction meant to protect a person from harm. But in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this reaction is changed or damaged. PTSD develops after a terrifying ordeal that involved physical harm or the threat of physical harm. PTSD was first brought to public attention in relation to war veterans, but it can result from a variety of traumatic incidents, such as mugging, rape, torture, being kidnapped or held captive, child abuse, car accidents, train wrecks, plane crashes, bombings, or natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes. Causes Genes. Stathmin, a protein needed to form fear memories. GRP (gastrin-releasing peptide), a signaling chemical in the brain released during emotional events.
Brain Areas. The Next Steps for PTSD Research. MENTAL HEALTH. Mental Health America: Welcome. NIMH · Home. DEPRESSION. Depression. What Is Depression? Everyone occasionally feels blue or sad. But these feelings are usually short-lived and pass within a couple of days. When you have depression, it interferes with daily life and causes pain for both you and those who care about you. Depression is a common but serious illness. Many people with a depressive illness never seek treatment. But the majority, even those with the most severe depression, can get better with treatment. There are several forms of depressive disorders. Major depression,—severe symptoms that interfere with your ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy life. Persistent depressive disorder—depressed mood that lasts for at least 2 years. Some forms of depression are slightly different, or they may develop under unique circumstances. Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, is not as common as major depression or persistent depressive disorder.
Causes Depressive illnesses are disorders of the brain. Signs & Symptoms Who Is At Risk? BI-POLAR DISORDER. Bipolar Disorder. Treatment can help many people, including those with the most severe forms of bipolar disorder. An effective treatment plan usually includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy, also called talk therapy. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness. Episodes of mania and depression typically come back over time. Between episodes, many people with bipolar disorder are free of mood changes, but some people may have lingering symptoms. Long-term, continuous treatment can help people manage these symptoms. Medications Certain medications can help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder. The most common types of medications that health care providers prescribe include mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics. Although bipolar depression is often treated with antidepressant medication, a mood stabilizer must be taken as well—taking an antidepressant without a mood stabilizer can trigger a manic episode or rapid cycling in a person with bipolar disorder.
People taking medication should: Mayo Clinic.