Little-Known Events That Can Cause PTSD

PTSD can be caused by wide array of life experiences, though some are not as known as others. Most people expect post-traumatic stress disorder to only affect those who have been to war or undergone some extreme childhood trauma, but attention should be drawn to those cases which are not typical but still cause the same amount of mental strain. Not all pain is equal, but the care we give to each survivor of pain should be. That being said, the following are a few of the lesser known causes of post-traumaic stress disorder.

Accidents

People of all ages who have survived a serious accident, whether it be a vehicle accident or some other sort of physical experience, can live with PTSD. Serious accidents cause psychological triggers in the brain, causing victims to live with paranoia, flashbacks, anxiety, isolation, and a plethora of mental issues.

Natural Disasters

In addition to sometimes losing one’s entire home and livelihood, natural disasters are known agents of PTSD. It goes without saying that living through a fire, hurricane, flood, or another natural disaster is bound to leave a mark on someone’s psyche. These types of occurrences can cause intense PTSD, forcing victims who have already lost everything to struggle with that pain long after the event as subsided.

Sexual Assault

Victims of sexual assault are undeniably scarred by their experiences. PTSD caused by sexual assault can leave one feeling isolated and alone. It can even force one into anti-social behavior, making it harder to open up to and grow closer to others. A lot of fear and anxiety is associated with the after-effects of sexual assault, making it one of the most common causes of PTSD.

Witnessing Traumatic Events

Watching the death of a loved one or witnessing someone else go through extraordinary pain can also cause PTSD. Many aspects of life are best left unseen by others, lest those witnesses live with the pain long after the world has moved on. This is a common form of PTSD for children who have watched their parents fighting. PTSD caused by witnessing traumatic events often leaves the victim scared of certain things. For example, someone who is affected by witnessing the tragic loss of a loved one in the hospital might develop a fear of hospitals.

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Herrick Lipton is the CEO of New Horizon Counseling Center in New York and is also an advocate for mental health. For more information about Herrick or to get in touch with New Horizon Counseling Center for resources, please visit nhcc.us or call 718–845–2620.