Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Short definition
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that may develop after exposure to a traumatic event, with intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in mood and heightened arousal.
In plain language
The person may relive the event in nightmares or sudden flashbacks, avoid places and situations that remind them of it and feel constantly on alert. It can affect, for example, survivors of accidents, violence, war or intensive care admissions. Trauma-focused psychotherapies, including exposure-based approaches, are reference treatments.