Do Eyes Show Trauma?
The eyes are often considered the window to the soul, and a new study has demonstrated that they may also be a window to trauma. Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have discovered that people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have a different response to emotional images than those without the condition.
What Did the Study Find?
The study, which was published in the journal Biological Psychiatry, found that the pupils of people with PTSD responded differently to emotional images than those without the disorder. Specifically, the pupils of people with PTSD were more dilated when shown positive images and more constricted when shown negative images.
The researchers believe that this difference in pupil size could be used as an indicator of PTSD in the future. The study also found that the pupil response of those with PTSD was more pronounced than those without the disorder, suggesting that people with PTSD are more sensitive to emotional stimuli.
What Does This Mean for PTSD?
This study is important for many reasons. First, it provides further evidence that PTSD is a real and serious condition. It also demonstrates that the effects of trauma can be seen in the physical body, which could help to reduce the stigma associated with the disorder.
The findings of this study could also lead to improved methods of diagnosis and treatment for PTSD. The researchers suggest that the pupil size changes could be used to help diagnose PTSD in the future. Additionally, they believe that the pupil response could be used to help assess the effectiveness of treatments for the disorder.
What Can People Do?
It is important to remember that PTSD is a serious condition that should not be taken lightly. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, it is important to seek professional help.
Therapy and medication can both be effective treatments for PTSD, and it is important to find the right combination of treatments for each individual. Additionally, there are many support groups and other resources available for those struggling with PTSD.
Conclusion
The findings of this study demonstrate that the eyes may be more than just a window to the soul — they may also be a window to trauma. The study found that people with PTSD have a different response to emotional images than those without the disorder, which could be used to help diagnose and treat the condition in the future. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, it is important to seek professional help.
