Psychology

Stress isn’t always a bad thing; it can be handy for a burst of extra energy and focus, like when you’re playing a competitive sport or have to speak in public. But when it’s continuous, it actually begins to change your brain.

This TED video examines the science behind post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Learn how traumatic experiences can linger, causing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and negative thoughts that interfere with everyday life.

Trauma is the result of our inability to process a distressing experience. It’s much more common than we might imagine...and requires a patient examination of our past to overcome.