What is PTSD?
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Trauma could include events such as military combat, natural disasters, sexual assault or physical violence.
Who gets PTSD?
Anyone who experiences or witnesses a traumatic event can potentially get PTSD. This includes military personnel, first responders, survivors of violence or abuse and people who have been in serious accidents.
What are the signs and symptoms of PTSD?
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Intrusive memories: recurring distressing memories of the event, flashbacks, or nightmares
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Avoidance: avoidance of activities, places, people, or conversations that remind the person of the traumatic event
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Negative mood or thoughts: ongoing negative feelings about oneself, others, the world, or the future; lack of interest in activities that used to provide pleasure; feeling emotionally numb; difficulty experiencing positive emotions
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Hyperarousal: feeling constantly on edge, tense, and irritable; having trouble sleeping or staying asleep; being easily startled or frightened; engaging in reckless or self-destructive behavior
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Re-experiencing: feeling as if the event is happening again, sometimes because of a trigger; having physical reactions such as sweating, shaking, or a rapid heartbeat when reminded of the event
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Cognitive and mood changes: inability to remember important aspects of the trauma; exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world; distorted thinking patterns; persistent negative emotions; difficulty feeling happy or satisfied
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Dissociation: feeling detached from one’s surroundings, as if watching oneself from a distance; losing touch with reality; feeling as if things aren’t real
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Physical symptoms: headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, and other physical symptoms without a medical explanation
┬À┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á┬á Emotional volatility: intense feelings of guilt, shame, anger, or irritability; difficulty controlling emotions and outbursts.
What are the risk factors for PTSD?
Several risk factors may predispose individuals to develop PTSD, including a history of trauma or abuse, a lack of social support, pre-existing mental health conditions and genetic factors. Additionally, some individuals may have a greater risk if they experience prolonged exposure to a traumatic situation or experience repeated traumas.
How is PTSD treated?
One of the most common treatments for PTSD includes psychotherapy or talk therapy. This type of therapy often helps patients to manage and cope with their traumatic experiences and symptoms. Through regular sessions with a trained mental health professional, patients can learn skills such as relaxation techniques, stress management strategies, and how to identify and manage negative and distorted thoughts. These skills can be used to help address anxiety, depression, and other symptoms associated with PTSD.
Another treatment for PTSD includes medication. Patients who suffer from PTSD may take antidepressants, which can assist in managing mood disorders, anxiety and other co-occurring disorders. Medications can also help decrease feelings of anger and irritability, therefore reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior which can sometimes be a symptom of PTSD.
Exposure therapy is another treatment option for PTSD. This type of psychotherapy is a variety of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In this therapy, the patient confronts his or her fear and is gradually exposed to reminders of the trauma, such as images, places, or objects that remind them of the traumatic event. During this process, the patient is taught how to respond differently to these reminders, learn how to deal with the anxiety and learn how to become desensitized so that the trauma no longer has a controlling impact on their lives.
However, not all PTSD patients respond positively to these treatments. Some patients may experience a lessening of symptoms as a result of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) treatment, which involves quick, repetitive movements of the hands or other means to simulate eye movements that can help reduce anxiety and emotional distress. Research indicates that EMDR can help patients to process traumatic memories, which in turn can reduce PTSD symptoms.
PTSD treatment is tailored to each individual’s specific needs by a professional; there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is advised that patients, under the care of a professional, choose a treatment that meets their particular needs and take it step-by-step towards living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
