PTSD Not Just For Soldiers
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) ?
PTSD is a disorder that develops in some people following an experienced or witnessed terrifying event. It is natural feel on edge, afraid and to have upsetting memories after a traumatic situation. Initially, individuals often experience temporary difficulties adjusting and coping, it may be hard to do daily activities, like go to work, go to school, or spend time with loved ones. However, with time most people recover from initial symptoms naturally.
Unfortunately for some, the notion that “time heals all” does not apply. There are those who continue to experience symptoms for moths or even years after the initial event. When thoughts and feelings from trauma continue to linger and are upsetting or causing problems in life, a diagnosis of PTSD may be given.
Who Develops PSTD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder is commonly associated with veterans and those exposed to war. However, PTSD can develop in any one at any age in fact according to the National Center for PTSD, about 7 or 8 out of every 100 people will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Children, and people who have experienced or witnessed physical or sexual assault, abuse, accident, disaster, or other serious events are also at risk for developing PTSD.
Not everyone that has been through a dangerous event will develop PTSD. As we study and learn more about this illness mental health professionals have discovered a multitude of factors that place individuals at increased risk or offer protection lowering risk. Personal factors—like previous traumatic exposure, age, and gender—can affect whether or not a person will develop PTSD. What happens after the traumatic event is also important. Stress can make PTSD more likely, while social support can make it less likely.
Symptoms of PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms may manifest shortly after the traumatic event, but sometimes symptoms may not appear until years later. Symptoms may also fluctuate in intensity and come and go over the course of time. These symptoms cause significant problems in social/work situations or relationships and daily activities. PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and feeling on edge or keyed up (aka hyperarousal)
Intrusive memories (Reliving the event)
Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event
Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)
Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event
Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event
Avoidance
Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event
Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event
Negative changes in thinking and mood
Negative thoughts about yourself, other people or the world
Numb—unable to have positive or loving feelings toward other people—and lost interest in things you used to enjoy.
Guilt or shame about the event, wishing you had done more to keep it from happening.
Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event
Feeling detached from family and friends
Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed
Hyperarousal (feeling on edge or keyed up)
Being easily startled or frightened
Always being on guard for danger
Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast
Trouble sleeping
Trouble concentrating
Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior
Overwhelming guilt or shame
How is PTSD Treated?
Primary treatments for PTSD include a combination of both psychotherapy (“talk” therapy) and medication. PTSD affects each individual differently thus no two treatment plans are alike, it may take trying a few different types of treatment to find what works best for your symptoms. Additionally, it is important to seek treatment with a mental health professional who is experienced in PTSD management.
The goal of treatment is to restore a sense of control over your life, by easing symptoms through education of coping strategies, allowing you to live life in absence of daily fear.
If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be experiencing PTSD please know that you do not have to suffer alone. Our psychcierge can and will provide you with the empathetic and supportive care you need to regain control over your life.
Request a consultation with Dr. Moore she is looking forward to discussing how the psychcierge lifestyle can get you on the road to mental prosperity.
