Which disorder is triggered by exposure to trauma and involves recurring thoughts and anxiety?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that is specifically triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. This disorder is characterized by recurring, intrusive thoughts about the trauma, flashbacks, and severe anxiety. Individuals with PTSD may experience avoidance of places or situations that remind them of the trauma, as well as heightened reactions to stress.

The nature of PTSD directly correlates with exposure to trauma, which distinguishes it from the other disorders listed. For example, panic disorder involves unexpected panic attacks but is not necessarily linked to a past trauma; obsessive-compulsive disorder revolves around unwanted, intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, while agoraphobia is characterized by a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in case of a panic attack. Thus, PTSD’s specific connection to trauma and its associated symptoms make it the correct choice in this context.