I only seem to hear abt ptsd in relation to war, disaster or abuse survivors. can it also occur after death of a loved one from a serious illness?

PTSD: One criterion for PTSD is that the pt. experienced something that was life-threatening. If you believed that the illness of your loved one made you more vulnerable to death then PERHAPS PTSD is the issue. No matter what it is called, you MAY have an anxiety disorder from dealing w/the illness of your loved one. Please see a clinical psychologist to learn strategies to help w/that and w/grief.

Meds psychotherapy: Get a full psychiatric evaluation to assess for PTSD symptoms, and see if medications are warranted. Next, find a reputable psychotherapist nearby who specializes in PTSD. Generally speaking, meds and psychotherapy together are the best approach.You cannot forget trauma. Psychotherapy makes living with it more bearable.