Which of these symptoms is related to increased anxiety in PTSD?

Flashbacks are indeed closely related to increased anxiety in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These episodes allow the individual to relive the traumatic event, experiencing intense feelings of fear, helplessness, or horror as if they are experiencing the trauma all over again. This vivid recollection can trigger a heightened state of arousal and anxiety, as the person may feel a loss of control and a sense of danger, even in a safe environment.

In PTSD, the memory of the trauma becomes intrusive, and flashbacks can occur unexpectedly, often in response to certain triggers. This symptom exemplifies how the impact of trauma can disrupt an individual's sense of safety and well-being, leading to chronic anxiety as they navigate their daily life.

Other symptoms of PTSD, such as hyperactivity, diminished interest in activities, or hallucinations, might be present in different contexts but do not directly correlate with the symptom of increased anxiety in the same way that flashbacks do. Hyperactivity can indicate an anxiety response but is not exclusive to PTSD, while diminished interest in activities may reflect emotional numbness rather than heightened anxiety. Hallucinations are typically indicative of another underlying mental health condition rather than being a core symptom of PTSD itself.