Reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms)

• You may have nightmares.
• You may feel like you are going through the event again. This is called a flashback.
• You may see, hear, or smell something that causes you to relive the event. This is called a trigger. News reports, seeing an accident, or hearing a car backfire are examples of triggers.

Avoiding situations that remind you of the event

• You may avoid crowds, because they feel dangerous.
• You may avoid driving if you were in a car accident or if your military convoy was bombed.
• If you were in an earthquake, you may avoid watching movies about earthquakes.
• You may keep very busy or avoid seeking help because it keeps you from having to think or talk about the event.

Negative changes in beliefs and feelings

• You may not have positive or loving feelings toward other people and may stay away from relationships.
• You may forget about parts of the traumatic event or not be able to talk about them.
• You may think the world is completely dangerous, and no one can be trusted.

Feeling keyed up (also called hyperarousal)

• You may have a hard time sleeping.
• You may have trouble concentrating.
• You may be startled by a loud noise or surprise.
• You might want to have your back to a wall in a restaurant or waiting room.