5. How does post‑traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develop? PTSD can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as an accident, natural disaster, or violence. Core symptoms include intrusive memories, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance of reminders, and emotional numbness. Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD—risk factors include previous trauma, lack of social support, and co‑existing mental‑health conditions. Early intervention with therapies like trauma‑focused CBT or EMDR can lessen symptom severity and foster resilience. Supportive relationships and self‑care practices—exercise, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness—also aid recovery. If trauma symptoms persist beyond a month or impair functioning, seek professional help at https://www.bestpsychiatristsindelhi.com/ and https://www.delhimindclinic.com/.