Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. These events might include experiences such as combat, sexual assault, physical or emotional abuse, natural disasters, accidents, or any other situation that causes intense fear, helplessness, or horror. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and it can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for PTSD, as well as how it affects the lives of those who live with it.