Which condition is characterized by persistent avoidance of stimuli related to a traumatic event?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by the development of symptoms that follow exposure to a traumatic event. One of the hallmark symptoms of PTSD is the persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with that trauma. This can manifest as avoiding reminders of the event, such as places, people, conversations, or anything that may trigger memories of the trauma. Individuals with PTSD often experience intrusive thoughts or flashbacks, and they may feel profound distress when reminded of the trauma. The avoidance behavior serves as a coping mechanism to reduce anxiety and distress associated with the traumatic memories, but it can also lead to significant impairment in daily functioning and interpersonal relationships.

In contrast, acute stress disorder, although similar in some ways to PTSD, occurs within a month of the trauma and can also involve avoidance but typically does not persist beyond this timeframe. Adjustment disorder with anxiety is a response to a significant stressor that leads to emotional or behavioral symptoms but does not necessarily involve the specific and persistent avoidance behaviors of stimuli related to trauma. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and a fear of future attacks, and avoidance in this context typically focuses on situations that trigger panic rather than on trauma-related stimuli.