Post traumatic stress disorder

The majority of adults will be exposed to a potentially traumatic event in their lifetime.1 These ‘traumatic events’ may include motor vehicle accidents, sexual abuse/rape, violent crimes, terrorism or natural disasters. Psychological distress is a part of the normal reaction to such events. However, when distress is severe, or persists, a diagnosis of acute stress disorder (ASD) or post‑traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be considered.