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HEALTH FAMILY PROBLEMS RELATIONSHIPS EDUCATION & CAREER Dear What's The Problem An appalling mass murder took place in my city. You may know it - it is called Srebrenica in Eastern Bosnia. Friends of mine were amongst those killed and raped but I made a narrow escape. Now, I do not know if I am blessed or cursed. I have recurring memories of violence and I feel isolated and afraid. I cannot see any happiness for me in the future. Why do I feel like this? Tatyana, Bosnia. Advice: Tricia Krietman (Counsellor) It seems very likely that Tatyana is suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. This is a condition which has been around as long as human beings and we still don’t really know what to do about it. Traumatic events that can trigger post tramatic stress disorder include violent personal assaults such as rape or mugging, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat. Most people find their own way through it but it can be very debilitating, leaving you depressed and anxious or making you turn to alcohol and drugs to dull the pain. At times of anniversaries or trials all the feelings of anxiety can return and it is very important to seek help from a counsellor, support groups or friends during this difficult time. Some people find talking to others and going through memories in a group very helpful, but others find being involved in an activity far removed from their memories to be more beneficial. The website for the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (see links) has many links to groups all over the world whocould be of help. If you have any advice for Tatyana, please do email us or write in with your thoughts. It may be something you have first hand experience of, or you may have a friend or relative who has suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. The What's the Problem? website is providing general information only. It should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of the What's the Problem? website. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.		FURTHER INFORMATION   Symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder can include: *Flashback episodes, memories, nightmares, or frightening thoughts, especially when they are exposed to events or objects reminiscent of the trauma. *Sufferers may also experience emotional numbness and sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, and irritability or outbursts of anger. *Feelings of intense guilt are also common. *About 30 percent of the men and women who have spent time in war zones experience PTSD *Symptoms typically begin within 3 months of a traumatic event, although occasionally they do not begin until years later    INTERNET LINKS International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies   Facts about post traumatic stress disorder   The BBC is not responsible for the content of external Internet sites