Understanding PTSD: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatments
About 12 million American adults struggle with PTSD; that’s 6% of the population. As a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), Singing River Services provides care for people in Jackson and George counties experiencing PTSD and can be reached 24/7.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA, notes that while often associated with veterans, PTSD can impact anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for PTSD is crucial for supporting those affected and promoting mental health awareness.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD can manifest through a range of symptoms varying in intensity and duration and are often disruptive to daily life. These symptoms are typically categorized into four main types:- Intrusive Thoughts: People with PTSD may experience recurring, involuntary memories of the traumatic event. These can include flashbacks, where they feel as though they are reliving the event, and nightmares that interrupt their sleep.
- Avoidance: People with PTSD may go to great lengths to avoid reminders of the trauma. This can mean staying away from places, activities, or even thoughts associated with the traumatic event.
- Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: PTSD can lead to persistent and distorted beliefs about themself or others. Individuals may feel detached from friends and family, experience memory problems, and struggle with feelings of guilt or shame.
- Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: This category includes being easily startled, feeling tense or “on edge,” having difficulty sleeping, and experiencing angry outbursts.
Causes of PTSD
PTSD usually develops after a person is exposed or directly experiences a traumatic event. Some of the more common causes are:- Combat Exposure: Military personnel exposed to combat situations are at high risk for developing PTSD.
- Childhood Trauma: Experiencing abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events during childhood can lead to PTSD down the road.
- Physical Assault: Victims of physical assault, including domestic violence and sexual assault, are at increased risk.
- Accidents: Serious accidents, such as car crashes, can trigger PTSD.
- Natural Disasters: Events like earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods can be traumatic enough to cause PTSD.
Treatment for PTSD
While PTSD can be a debilitating condition, various treatment options are available that can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. The most effective treatments for PTSD include:- Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy is the most common treatment for PTSD. Specific types of psychotherapy that have been shown to be effective include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with their trauma.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR involves guided eye movements to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories.
- Exposure Therapy: This therapy helps individuals confront and reduce their fear of trauma-related memories and situations.
- Medications: Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly prescribed to help manage PTSD symptoms. These medications can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and alleviate depressive symptoms.
- Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide individuals with a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who have gone through similar trauma can be incredibly validating and healing.
- Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can all play a role in managing PTSD symptoms. Additionally, reducing alcohol and drug use is essential, as these substances can worsen symptoms.
