Patient case: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Sub-Saharan Africa.
A 30-year-old man from a conflict-affected region in South Sudan visits a local clinic, reporting difficulty sleeping, intrusive memories, and heightened anxiety following a traumatic experience during recent violence in his community. He describes witnessing the loss of friends and the destruction of his home, which has left him feeling unsafe and hyper vigilant.
For the past year, he has experienced frequent nightmares about the events and often feels a sense of detachment from reality. He avoids places that remind him of the trauma and struggles with
feelings of guilt and shame for surviving when others did not. His daily life has been significantly impacted; he has difficulty concentrating at work and has withdrawn from social interactions, leading to increased isolation.
Initially, he believed his symptoms were a normal response to the trauma and tried to cope on his own. However, as his anxiety worsened, he was encouraged by a family member to seek help at the clinic.
After a thorough assessment, the healthcare provider diagnosed him with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The treatment plan included trauma-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and, if needed, medication to help manage his anxiety and sleep disturbances. The provider also referred him to a support group for individuals with similar experiences.
Over the following months, with therapy and support, he began to process his trauma, learn coping strategies, and gradually reintegrate into social activities. While healing is a long journey, he felt more empowered and hopeful about the future.
A). Excessive fatigue and weight loss
B). Difficulty sleeping, intrusive memories, and heightened anxiety
C). Mood swings and irritability
D). Chronic pain and headaches
A). A few weeks
B). Several months
C). About a year
D). Over two years
A). Anger and frustration
B). Guilt and shame
C). Indifference and apathy
D). Happiness and relief
A). Traditional herbal remedies
B). Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication
C). Physical therapy and rest
D). Group therapy without a focus on trauma
