A PTSD episode can manifest in many ways depending on the individual and their specific triggers. Generally, a PTSD episode can be characterized by intense and uncomfortable emotions, as well as physical and cognitive symptoms.
Emotionally, people who experience a PTSD episode may feel overwhelmed, scared, anxious, and/or angry. They may feel like their emotions are out of control, and be unable to identify or articulate what they are feeling.
Physically, a PTSD episode can include a racing heart, difficulty breathing, trembling, sweating, and/or dizziness. People experiencing a PTSD episode may also feel their body tensing up or may experience pain or nausea.
Cognitively, people in the midst of a PTSD episode may experience intrusive thoughts or memories related to the traumatic event or events that have triggered their PTSD. People in the midst of a PTSD episode may also experience difficulty concentrating, confusion, disorientation, and/or difficulty making decisions.
In addition, people experiencing a PTSD episode may also engage in behaviors to cope with their distress such as avoiding people, places, or activities that are reminders of the triggering event, using substances, or engaging in other self-harming behaviors.
In summary, a PTSD episode can be characterized by intense and uncomfortable emotions, physical symptoms, intrusive thoughts and memories, confusion, disorientation, and potentially self-harming behaviors.