Heritability in PTSD, Depression and Anxiety

A recent study of multigenerational family members initially exposed to trauma has suggested that the genetic makeup of some individuals makes them more vulnerable to PTSD, depression and anxiety. This study suggested that around 40% of variation shown in PTSD sufferers was acountable in terms of gentic factors and the balance attributable to nongenetic factors.…

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Increased Arousal and PTSD

Recent research has suggested that increased arousal, rapid heart and respiration rates, at the time of trauma may predict subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Elevated heart rate and respiration rate immediately following a traumatic event are shown to be associated  with subsequent PTSD, suggesting a possible starting point for examining the mechanics of this disorder.