Post-traumatic stress disorder is much more common than many of us may think. Data suggests an estimated 70% of American adults have experienced some type of traumatic event throughout their lifetimes, and up to 20% of these people will go on to develop PTSD as a result.

However, just because its prevalent doesnt mean its inherently understood. For those who dont have the condition, its hard to picture what its like or why it can be so debilitating. That can lead to a lot of misconceptions about the illness.

HuffPost surveyed some experts who treat the mental health condition plus some patients to hear firsthand what people typically get wrong about living with PTSD. Heres what everyone should keep in mind about the condition:

Myth: PTSD affects only people in the military.