- Contents
- Introduction
- What is post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD?
- Who gets PTSD?
- What causes PTSD?
- How do I know if I have PTSD?
- When does PTSD start?
- How can I get better?
- How PTSD Can Happen: Janet's Story
- Facts About PTSD
- Don't Hurt Yourself
- For More Information
What is post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD?
PTSD is a real illness. You can get PTSD after living through or seeing a dangerous event, such as war, a hurricane, or bad accident. PTSD makes you feel stressed and afraid after the danger is over. It affects your life and the people around you.
If you have PTSD, you can get treatment and feel better.
Related Information
- See all NIMH publications about:
- Browse Mental Health Topics
- About NIMH Publications




