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Medical Author:

Maria Pease, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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When to Seek Medical Care

Most people bounce back from traumatic events such as car crashes or assaults including rape. Short term, most of us would experience some of these symptoms. But if any symptoms last more than a month and affect job performance or the ability to function in day-to-day life, you should consult a licensed mental-health professional.

Although it may seem painful to remember your trauma, many studies show that avoiding it continues to cause problems. Talking about it with a professional is helpful to many people with PTSD.