Let Down Effect vs. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Have you ever successfully fought your way through a stressful situation only to become sick afterwards? Have you ever gotten ill while on vacation?Let Down Effect is a post stress illness - not to be confused with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.

Post-traumatic Stress vs. Let Down

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is considered an anxiety disorder. It can occur after experiencing a traumatic event that produces an intense emotional response. This psychological trauma may or may not include physical injuries. Even the most minor of injuries or events can lead to PTSD, especially if the individual experiences feelings of physical vulnerability.

People suffering from PTSD often experience repeated flashbacks to the traumatizing event. They may avoid anything that reminds them and they may shy away from the world in general - physically and emotionally.

PTSD may cause chronic problems, such as headaches, sweating, palpitations, muscle spasms, gastrointestinal disturbances, insomnia and fatigue. These individuals may be easily startled, constantly anxious or depressed. They may suffer from unpredictable bouts of aggressive or explosive behavior, have difficulty with concentration or task completion, exhibit impaired memory and experience occasional blackouts.

Symptoms tend to recur or intensify in situations, which trigger memories of the original stress event. The duration of this disorder varies and relapses sometimes occur. Early recognition and treatment can facilitate recovery.

Let Down Syndrome, on the other hand, is a post stress illness. Simply put, it is your body's inability to ward off infections after a stressful event - hence, "let down".

Stress causes the body to release a number of chemicals, or stress hormones. These chemicals activate your immune system to allow your body to fight illness. When the stress ends, the immune system pulls back.