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

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

In a victim impact statement she read out in court, Jordan Fox said she suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder from being in the pub at the time.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

An increase in patients, not enough medical staff, the threat of malpractice lawsuits, and distress about patients’ inability to pay for healthcare got so bad that he developed post-traumatic stress disorder.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

In the aftermath of the incident, J.M. has exhibited diminished cognitive function, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and is terrified of bath time — an activity he previously enjoyed, according to the complaint.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

I bet he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson