Is it PTSD? 3 things to look for

A serious, jarring experience, like a car accident, violent assault or natural disaster, may cause lasting effects on your mental health. That's the basic premise of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will go on to develop PTSD, but experts say it's more widespread than once thought.

PTSD is defined by symptoms that last for a month or more and don't get better without treatment. Wondering if you're experiencing PTSD? Here are 3 key symptoms to look for:

"I can't forget."

You may relive the traumatic event. Flashbacks, nightmares, recurrent memories and physical reactions to triggers may remind you of the event.

"I don't want to remember."

You may avoid any reminder of the traumatic event, including people and places. You may also feel detached and be less interested in day-to-day activities. You may feel emotionally numb.

"I'm ready in case it happens again."

This heightened awareness can make it hard to focus or sleep well. You may feel irritable or startle easily.

Other symptoms

PTSD can also cause:

• Intense guilt.
• Depression.
• Generalized anxiety.
• Headaches.
• A fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat (palpitations).
• Dizziness.
• Fainting.
• Agitation.

Treatment can help

A psychologist or psychiatrist usually treats PTSD. During treatment, you'll learn to confront, rather than avoid, memories of the traumatic event.

Treatment, especially when it's given early on, is usually helpful for PTSD. Taking stock of these symptoms can help you or a loved one confront and move through traumatic emotions — and heal.