Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition emerging after exposure to a traumatic event, characterized by intrusive symptoms such as nightmares and distressing memories linked to the trauma, leading to a sense of reliving the event. Individuals with PTSD often avoid reminders of the trauma and may experience sleep difficulties, negative emotions, concentration issues, and irritability.
While the neurocircuitry of PTSD is not entirely understood, a prevalent hypothesis suggests decreased activity in the medial prefrontal cortex and increased activity in specific amygdala subnuclei associated with threat identification. This imbalance may result in exaggerated reactions to trauma-related stimuli, as the normal inhibition by the medial prefrontal cortex is compromised. Some PTSD patients, however, exhibit emotional suppression, indicating a complex interplay of neural mechanisms. Recent research also suggests the involvement of broader brain networks in manifesting PTSD symptoms.
Watch this 2 minute video to understand this condition better: