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An Acronym For Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

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PTSD, an acronym for post-traumatic stress disorder, impacts many people who “experience a shocking, scary, or dangerous event” (National Institute of Mental Health,). The body releases hormones such as adrenaline to defend against danger; this is the “fight or flight” system. When people continue to encounter stress and fright after an incident, they may be diagnosed with PTSD. Therapies and medications prove to help overcome this disorder. Most people who are suffering, like Tayo in Leslie Marmon Silko’s Ceremony, are Veterans. Tayo’s Native American background combats illnesses and disorders in a less conventional way with medicine men and different rituals. This process has many drawbacks than current solutions, Tayo struggles. Tayo’s childhood neglect, guilt, loneliness, and cultural standards all contribute to his complicated transition into normal life on top of his PTSD. Ceremonies play a big role in the culture of Native Americans, in times of need, to give thanks, or ask for forgiveness. In Tayo’s case, these ceremonies did little to help him heal from his mental wounds due to his service as a Marine. Tayo served with his cousin Rocky, who sadly died protecting America. Many tragic events occurred in his life but the most obvious struggle is Tayo’s mental and social health. His mother left him at his Aunt’s house when he was little and then she died soon after. He was never accepted by his family or community because he is a half blood. Meaning his

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