post-traumatic stress disorder

American  

[pohst-truh-mat-ik stres dis-awr-der, -traw-] / ˌpoʊst trəˈmæt ɪk ˈstrɛs dɪsˌɔr dər, -trɔ- /

noun

Psychiatry.

1. a mental disorder occurring after an extremely distressing, stressful, or frightening event, and characterized by symptoms such as reliving the event, avoidance of anything that is a reminder of the event, withdrawal from social interactions or previous activities, and an increase in feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or guilt. PTSD

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post-traumatic stress disorder British  

noun

1.  PTSD.  a psychological condition, characterized by anxiety, withdrawal, and a proneness to physical illness, that may follow a traumatic experience

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Etymology

Origin of post-traumatic stress disorder

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

He has acknowledged being a frequent trash-talker online and a poor romantic partner when he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder after returning from combat tours, a time that coincided with when he dated Fifield.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

Some local residents have long pressed leaders to act, saying that intrusive noise could worsen post-traumatic stress disorder and other ailments.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2026

Many of these medicines are aimed at patients for whom other treatments have failed, including military veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

He said he believed his wife had mental health issues due to post-traumatic stress disorder after witnessing an armed carjacking incident in South Africa.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

The petition detailed Herbert's military service and explained why military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder are worthy of compassion.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson