There are many factors that can put us at risk of experiencing a trauma, many of which are often out of our control. The word "trauma" is used for many different types of experiences that are stressful. But not all stressful events are the type of trauma that can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). To be at risk for PTSD, the trauma must be a shocking and dangerous event that someone sees or that happens to them. During this type of event, one may think that their or others' lives are in danger. Many of us will experience at least one trauma in our lifetime that could lead to PTSD. According to the U.S. department of Veteran Affairs, about 6 out of every 100 people (or 6% of the U.S. population) will experience PTSD at some point in their lives.
