What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. PTSD can cause severe anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. It can affect anyone who has gone through a traumatic experience, such as combat, natural disasters, accidents, or violent assaults. Symptoms of PTSD can include:

• Intrusive memories, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe emotional distress or physical reactions to reminders of the trauma.
• Avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding places, activities, or people that remind you of the traumatic event.
• Negative changes in thinking and mood, including feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, and difficulty maintaining close relationships.
• Changes in physical and emotional reactions, such as being easily startled, feeling tense or on edge, difficulty sleeping, and experiencing angry outbursts.

When should I schedule a PTSD screening?

You should schedule a PTSD screening if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that interfere with daily life and persist for more than a month after a traumatic event. If you notice signs of severe anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties following trauma, seeking a professional evaluation can help. Early intervention is crucial in managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life.

How is PTSD treated?

PTSD is often treated with a combination of therapies tailored to the individual’s needs. These treatments include:

• Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Engaging in therapy sessions with a mental health professional can help you explore and process traumatic memories, develop coping strategies, and reduce symptoms. Types of therapy include:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
• Medication: Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and other medications can help manage symptoms of PTSD. Your healthcare provider will work with you to find the right medication and dosage.
• Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating regular physical activity, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques can help manage symptoms.
• Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and shared experiences, helping you feel less isolated.

Our practice offers comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans to help manage PTSD effectively. Call to schedule a PTSD screening or book an appointment online today.