What is post-traumatic stress?

What causes PTSD?

PTSD is described as an “anxiety disorder” and is caused by a traumatic event involving physical danger to a person, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association. The CMHA says PTSD affects about one in 10 people and is among the most common mental health problems.

What are the signs?

The CMHA says symptoms usually emerge within three months of the event, though they can also surface years later. The intensity and duration can vary, with some people recovering in six months, but others taking much longer. Re-experiencing the event is one of the most common symptoms, according to the CMHA. This can include frequent and powerful memories, nightmares or flashbacks. Emotional numbing is another; think of the person who withdraws from his or her family and friends or otherwise has a hard time feeling any emotions. Sleep-pattern changes and difficulty concentrating are common, which often feeds frustration and results in increased aggression.

How many Canadian soldiers have PTSD?

The exact number is not known and likely won’t be known for years. A National Defence study published in 2011 estimated eight per cent of all Canadian troops who served in Afghanistan were suffering from PTSD. That works out to more than 3,000 men and women in uniform.