Summary

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, has long been misunderstood, even by medical and psychological professionals. Formerly called shell-shock, it was considered a disorder that exclusively affected soldiers. Today, this myth persists, and many people are still unaware that any traumatic event can be the catalyst for PTSD. Understanding the facts about this disorder helps young adults learn the best way to interact with a loved one who has it or learn whether their own symptoms warrant seeking further help. Annotated quotes from medical experts, detailed graphs, and full-color photographs show readers this disorder from all sides.