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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Facts And Statistics

Man trying not to become a PTSD statistic

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition likely triggered by a traumatic event. It affects millions of people of all ages across the United States and throughout the rest of the world.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. At Vertava Health, we offer treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. Contact us at 844.470.0410 to learn more about our treatment options and PTSD statistics.

PTSD Statistics

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, PTSD affects approximately 6.8 percent of people during their lifetime.

  • In a given year, approximately 3.6 percent of adults 18 and older will have PTSD.
  • Among adolescents aged 13 through 17, PTSD affects approximately 5 percent of individuals.
  • Among people who have witnessed a traumatic event at some point in their life, the risk of developing PTSD is 1 in 5.
  • PTSD affects approximately 8 million adults in the United States annually.

PTSD Statistics Regarding Gender

  • According to data collected in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, females were more likely to suffer from PTSD than males.
  • In the survey, 5.2 percent of female adults had experienced PTSD in the past year, compared to only 1.8 percent of male adults.
  • The survey showed that 8 percent of female adolescents experienced PTSD, compared to only 2.3 percent of male adolescents.
  • Transgender individuals are also at an increased risk for PTSD, with estimates showing that approximately 29 percent of transgender adults have been diagnosed with the condition.

PTSD In Specific Populations

  • The rate of PTSD is higher among veterans, likely due to their increased risk of exposure to trauma.
  • Approximately 30 percent of Vietnam veterans are expected to develop PTSD at some point in their lives.
  • Among Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans, the rate of PTSD is estimated to be between 11 and 20 percent.
  • The rate of PTSD is estimated at 12 percent among Gulf War veterans.
  • PTSD is more common among people who have experienced certain types of trauma. As many as 49 percent of rape victims will develop PTSD.
  • 31.9 percent of physical assault victims will develop PTSD, as will 16.8 percent of people involved in a serious accident.

PTSD And The Rate Of Co-Occurring Conditions

  • According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 80 percent of people who have PTSD will have one or more additional mental health diagnoses.
  • Some co-occurring conditions commonly diagnosed in people with PTSD include substance use disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders.
  • Patients with PTSD may also be more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors, such as gambling or aggressive driving.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Facts

  • The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 3.6 percent of people worldwide have PTSD.
  • In a WHO study of 21 countries, researchers found that as many as 10 percent of respondents had witnessed a traumatic event in the previous year. Many of these people will go on to develop PTSD.
  • In another study of 24 countries, researchers found that more than 70 percent of respondents had experienced a traumatic event at some time in their lives.

PTSD Statistics and Treatment

PTSD often responds to treatment. The most successful treatments for PTSD include prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Talk therapy and medications may also be recommended for patients with PTSD. Roughly half of the people with PTSD will seek treatment. Some cases will resolve within a few weeks or months, while others will persist for years.

Vertava Health Can Help

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, know that help is available. At Vertava Health, we offer evidence-based treatment programs for PTSD and co-occurring disorders. Contact us today at 844.470.0410 to learn more about our individualized treatment plans and begin your journey toward healing.