Not all trauma survivors develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but research shows that certain individuals face a significantly higher risk due to the type of trauma experienced, personal history, and social or psychological factors. Survivors of interpersonal, intentional, and repeated trauma are at the highest risk overall. This includes people who have gone through sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic violence, torture, or captivity. These events directly target a person’s sense of safety and control, making them more likely to lead to long-term psychological consequences.

Another group at high risk includes individuals who experience life-threatening events such as combat exposure, severe accidents, or natural disasters especially if the event involves intense fear or helplessness. First responders, soldiers, and survivors of violent crime frequently fall into this category.

Personal vulnerabilities also play a key role. Trauma survivors with a history of previous trauma, especially in childhood, have a greater likelihood of developing PTSD because the new trauma can reactivate old emotional wounds. People with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, or those with limited social support, are also more vulnerable.

The severity, duration, and proximity to the traumatic event matter as well. For example, someone directly harmed during an attack, someone who witnessed gruesome details, or someone repeatedly exposed to traumatic situations is more likely to develop PTSD compared to someone who experienced a single event from a distance.

Additionally, survivors who lack emotional or social support after the event such as those who are isolated, not believed, or unable to access professional help are at heightened risk.

Overall, the trauma survivors at the highest risk for PTSD are those exposed to intentional interpersonal violence, multiple or prolonged traumas, and those who have limited support or prior trauma histories.