Diagnosis and Management of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a stress disorder that can disrupt social life due to cognitive and mood changes. Its etiology involves a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, with genetics playing a role. Differentiating traumatic stressors from ordinary stressors is crucial for PTSD. According to DSM-V, PTSD diagnosis criteria for adults, adolescents, and children over 6 include stressors, intrusive symptoms, avoidance symptoms, negative cognition and mood changes, reactivity and alertness changes, symptom duration, and additional criteria. Diagnosing PTSD is challenging in medical practice. Treatment includes psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, with psychotherapy being more effective but requiring longer commitment. Proper management can help reduce PTSD symptoms.