Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is characterized by symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, and intense anxiety.
Flashbacks are vivid memories or sensory experiences of a traumatic event that feel like reliving the experience.
Hyperarousal: Hyperarousal refers to a state of constant alertness and heightened sensitivity to potential threats, often seen in individuals with PTSD.