After returning from the Iraq war, Denver was plagued by nightmares of the attacks. In addition, he avoided anything associated with the war and was hypervigilant for danger. He has been home for nearly 6 months, but these symptoms continue. Denver might have __________ disorder.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Denver's symptoms, including nightmares, avoidance, and hypervigilance are all characteristic of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Acute stress disorder may be a possibility if the symptoms had started soon after the traumatic event, but since Denver has been home for 6 months, PTSD is a more likely diagnosis. Mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder are not characterized by these specific symptoms, and obsessive-compulsive disorder involves persistent and repetitive thoughts and behaviors that are not related to traumatic events.

After Returning from the Iraq War, Denver Was Plagued by Nightmares