When a person experiences, witnesses, or is confronted with an event or situation that involves actual or threatened death, serious injury, or a threat to the physical integrity of self or others, he or she can experience fear, helplessness, and horror. PTSD results when effects of exposure to a traumatic event persist beyond one month following the event.
Please answer "Yes" or "No" if you have been exposed to or witnessed a traumatic event and have engaged in or experienced any of the following over the past month on a fairly consistent basis.
- Bothered by unwanted memories or nightmares?
- Tried to avoid thinking or talking about event?
- Sought information or activities related to the event?
- Lost pleasure in things you used to enjoy?
- Felt numb or had difficulty experiencing feelings?
- Had trouble concentrating or focusing
- Felt easily annoyed, irritated, or on edge?
- Avoided social gatherings?
- Had difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Used excessive caution or watchful of surroundings
If you answered "Yes" to 4 or more of these, then you might be experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress. If you are concerned about your reactions to a traumatic event, please seek medical and/or psychological support. If you are a VUMC faculty or staff member, you can start by calling Work/Life Connections – EAP at (615) 936-1327 for a free, confidential assessment.
Please consult the Vanderbilt Health and Wellness Resource Library for more information on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other Anxiety Disorders.
