Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that some people develop after exposure to a traumatic event. It is considered a continuous, intense physical and emotional response that needs immediate attention.
After a traumatizing event, having distressing memories, trouble sleeping, or emotional reactions are expected; however, if these feelings and symptoms last for months, it might be PTSD. While the disorder is commonly connected to war veterans and survivors, anyone who has experienced trauma can develop PTSD.
Common Symptoms of PTSD
Most symptoms of PTSD appear just after the traumatic event; however, it might take weeks, months, or even years for symptoms in some cases to emerge. Generally, symptoms of PTSD are categorized into four different types:
Re-Experiencing (Reliving the Event)
This category includes symptoms such as nightmares, frightening thoughts, flashbacks, and emotional/physical reactions to bad memories. Also, things like a specific kind of noise, sight, or smell, called triggers, can cause one to relive the event.
Avoidance
These symptoms make you stay away from anything that reminds you of the event, including people, activities, or places that remind you of the trauma. You might also avoid talking about the event, suppress your feelings, or feel detached from others.
Hypo-Arousal and Reactive
Patients with these symptoms may feel continuously cautious and worried about impending danger. Some examples of these symptoms are difficulty sleeping, edginess, irritability, being easily startled, outbursts of anger, driving aggressively, and abusing drugs or alcohol.
Cognition and Mood
Symptoms of this category are mainly negative thoughts and depressive feelings, like distorted feelings of guilt or blame. You might notice your loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities and feel isolated, estranged, or suicidal. You may also feel you cannot trust anyone. Also, you may forget the traumatizing event’s details or be unable to discuss it.
Causes of PTSD
PTSD mainly occurs after being exposed to an intensely traumatic event. However, it should be noted that the disorder is not always a result of exposure to traumatic events that physically happen to you; some people develop PTSD after witnessing one of their loved ones experience harm or go through a dangerous situation. In addition, the unexpected death of a loved one can also lead to PTSD.
Can PTSD Be Cured?
PTSD cannot be cured, but it can be treated. By treatment, we mean you manage your symptoms effectively, restore normal functioning, and quickly return to your previous life. Symptoms might be alleviated completely for some patients. Also, for those whose symptoms do not vanish, chances are high that they see improvements with treatment and experience a higher quality of life.
Reach Out Today
Have you been experiencing the symptoms of PTSD? Are you looking for a trauma therapist in Nashville TN to help you? Additionally we serve Las Vegas and more states – see our full service area here. Do not hesitate to contact On Your Mind Counseling today. A counselor can work with you toward a better future. Contact us today at 615-499-6899 and schedule an appointment online.