The relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder and physical health

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex and heterogeneous trauma-related mental disorder associated with persistent psychological distress and functional impairment. Although its core symptoms are primarily psychological, growing evidence suggests that PTSD is also associated with alterations in neurobiological, endocrine, autonomic, and immune functioning, which may contribute to adverse physical health outcomes. The objective of this thesis was to examine how PTSD is associated with long-term physical health outcomes and to provide an integrated understanding of the psychological and biological processes that may contribute to this relationship. A review of recent literature was conducted to synthesize evidence on the clinical and psychological features of PTSD, the mechanisms involved in its development and maintenance, and the biological pathways that may link the disorder to long-term physical illness. Particular emphasis was placed on dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system, as well as on inflammatory and immune alterations. Findings suggest that no single mechanism fully explains the association between PTSD and physical illness. Rather, psychological symptoms, health-related behaviors, neurobiological changes, and immune and inflammatory processes appear to interact over time, contributing to increased vulnerability to chronic physical health conditions. The relationship between PTSD and physical illness also appears to be bidirectional, as chronic medical conditions may worsen psychological distress and interfere with recovery. Overall, the evidence supports an integrated biopsychosocial understanding of PTSD that considers both its psychological manifestations and its broader physical health consequences. This perspective highlights the importance of comprehensive assessment, multidisciplinary care, and further longitudinal research to clarify causal pathways and improve prevention, treatment, and long-term outcomes for individuals with PTSD.