What is a key characteristic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

A key characteristic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the presence of flashbacks to traumatic events. These flashbacks can cause individuals to vividly re-experience aspects of the trauma as if they are happening in the present moment, which can be distressing and disorienting. This phenomenon is a hallmark symptom of PTSD and highlights the way trauma can affect memory and perception, making it difficult for individuals to separate their past experiences from their current reality.

In addition to flashbacks, PTSD typically includes symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, negative alterations in mood and cognition, and heightened arousal. Each of these components contributes to the overall complexity of the disorder and underscores how trauma can impact a person’s mental health.

In contrast, the other answers do not specifically align with the defining characteristics of PTSD. Intense focus on the future and impulsive decision-making may appear in various mental health conditions but are not specific to PTSD. Chronic fatigue might coexist with PTSD but does not encapsulate the unique traits associated with it.