A Look At Posttraumatic Stress Disorder - 2747 Words

Introduction: In this paper we will take a look at posttraumatic stress disorder (from here on referred to as PTSD) in adults, aged 18 years and older, who have been victimized by sexual abuse as a child. In every case of childhood sexual abuse there are always lingering effects from the trauma. While some victims have a positive network and receive the help needed to cope with traumatic events such as this, others are left to suffer in silence, which in turn causes a variety of long term crisis’s. One such issue that may arise in the area of psychiatric health is posttraumatic stress disorder. PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event, generally coincides with two emotions, guilt and shame, expressed by the†¦show more content†¦An adult who functions inappropriately in society victimizes a childhood sexual abuse victim. When the victim spirals into shame and guilt related to PTSD, as a child or an adult, their emotions and actions will af fect the society they come into contact with. What is hoped to be understood is that childhood sexual abuse does not only effect the short term. Those that do not have a healthy relationship to turn to in order to disclose the abuse will come to an end where their daily life is consumed by guilt and shame. Literature Review: The Mayo Clinic defines PTSD as, â€Å"a mental health condition that is triggered by a terrifying event.† These events can be personal inflicted on the person or witness by a person. For anyone who experiences a traumatic event readjustment can be difficult and a long process but those that receive help can make a recovery. For those that the have lasting symptoms or have symptoms that get worse they may be diagnosed with PTSD. The symptoms of PTSD are intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and/or changes in emotional reactions. Reminders or stressors of the traumatic event can lead to intensity in PTSD symptoms. There are 5 most common kinds of traumatic events that could lead to PTSD, two of which are child neglect and abuse and sexual abuse.