Overview Of PTSD
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that may be developed after experiencing a traumatic event. After trauma many individuals experience difficulties, but their mental health typically improves with time. Those who continue to experience flashbacks, nightmares, or other symptoms may be diagnosed with PTSD.
PTSD affects 3.6% of Americans, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The likelihood of developing PSTD varies by aspects of the traumatic event and biological factors. Statistically, women are more likely than men to develop PTSD.
For those struggling with posttraumatic stress disorder, there is hope. Various forms of treatment are used for PTSD and have been proven to be beneficial in treating symptoms.
SYmptoms
After a traumatic event, many people will feel short term responses. However, if symptoms persist for longer than a month, they may lead to a diagnosis of PTSD. Symptoms may vary but commonly include:
- Arousal and Reactive Symptoms
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Feeling tense, on guard, or on edge
- Easily startled
- Engaging in reckless behavior
- Trouble concentrating
- Outbursts of anger
- Avoidance Symptoms
- Avoiding certain places, people, or things that remind one of the experience
- Avoiding thoughts and/or feelings about the traumatic event
- Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Recurring, distressing memories or dreams related to the event
- Flashbacks, which may include physical symptoms
- Distressing thoughts
- Cognitive and Mood Symptoms
- Trouble remembering the features of the traumatic event
- Difficulty feeling both positive and negative emotions
- Feelings of guilt and/or blame
- Loss of interest in activities
- Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
Treatment
Treatment plans vary, but the most common types of treatment used for PTSD include the following:
- Medication
- Antidepressants are commonly used to treat PTSD. They can help provide relief from symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Anti-anxiety medications can help relieve serve anxiety. Many of these medications are habit forming, so they are typically only used short term.
- Other medications may also be used to treat posttraumatic stress disorder.
- Psychotherapy
- Psychotherapy can include one-on-one sessions or group sessions.
- Therapy can provide a support network, education, and guidance to those struggling with PTSD.
- Commonly used types of psychotherapy used to treat PTSD include:
- Cognitive therapy
- Exposure therapy
Crisis Help
If you or a loved one is in a crisis, it is important to get help immediately. If in danger of suicide:
- Call 911
- Go to the nearest emergency room
- Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (1-800-799-4889)
RESOURCES
- To learn more about PTSD, we recommend contacting your health care provider.
- To read more about PTSD, the following resources are suggested:
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