Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that you may develop after experiencing a life-threatening event, natural disasters, car accidents or sexual assaults. After these traumatic events, it’s normal to have some upsetting memories, feelings of being on edge or trouble sleeping. At first, day-to-day activities like going to work or school may be difficult. If these feelings do not subside after a few weeks or months, you may have PTSD.

It’s important to remember that PTSD does not mean weakness. A number of factors can increase your chance of developing PTSD, many of which are not under your control.