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Ariana Grande suffering from PTSD after Manchester Arena attack

Singer spoke about the aftermath of the attack shortly after revealing a bee tattoo in tribute to the victims and their families

Roisin O'Connor
Music Correspondent
Tuesday 05 June 2018 08:55 BST
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Ariana Grande breaks down singing 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' at Manchester benefit

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Ariana Grande has revealed she is coping with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following last year’s attack at Manchester Arena.

The singer had just finished her concert on 22 May 2017 when a suicide bomber detonated a homemade explosive device, killing 22 people and injuring hundreds more.

Speaking to British Vogue, Grande said: “It’s hard to talk about because so many people have suffered such severe, tremendous loss. But yeah, it’s a real thing.

“I know those families and my fans, and everyone there experienced a tremendous amount of it as well. Time is the biggest thing.

“I feel like I shouldn’t even be talking about my own experience,” she continued, ”like I shouldn’t even say anything. I don’t think I’ll ever know how to talk about it and not cry.”

PTSD is an anxiety disorder caused by events that trigger extreme stress, fear or distress. According to the NHS, someone suffering from PTSD often relives the experience through nightmares and flashbacks. Those experiencing the disorder can also have feelings of isolation or guilt, along with problems sleeping, and difficult concentrating.

Last month Grande revealed she had a bee tattoo behind her ear in tribute to the victims of the bombing. The bee is an official symbol of Manchester, representing the city’s industrial past, and character traits of hard work, and working together.

Grande appears on the front cover of British Vogue’s July 2018 issue.

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