Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects people of every age group, from every walk of life. If you or someone you know has experienced a traumatic event, the emotions that follow may feel overwhelming at times. In this guide, we will take a closer look at what PTSD is and the treatments available for it.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a condition that may occur after a traumatic event. There are many types of trauma that can lead to PTSD, including natural disasters, physical assaults, vehicle accidents, military combat, and more. Someone may experience PTSD after the loss of a loved one (often referred to as grief PTSD). PTSD can also come from second-hand experiences, such as a social worker hearing repeat cases of severe child abuse.
Trauma is accompanied with memories and emotions that the brain may have a hard time processing. This leads to nightmares, flashbacks, blackouts, severe depression, or a number of other symptoms. Regardless of the source of PTSD, there are treatments available to cope with/prevent these experiences.
Signs and Symptoms of PTSD
The symptoms of PTSD vary from one person to the next. They may include:
- Flashback memories triggered by a sound, smell, sight, etc.
- Moments of confusion or blackouts
- Temporarily feeling like it is a different time period
- Anger outbursts
- Being easily startled
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Self-destructive behaviors
- Social isolation
Symptoms often appear within three months of the trauma, but that is not always the case. For instance, a parent who witnesses the death of their child may go through a mourning or denial period for months after the passing. Once those emotions have processed, the symptoms of grief PTSD may come to the surface. Every person has a unique experience.
How to Find PTSD Treatment
PTSD treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Therapy is designed to peel back the layers of PTSD – understand the triggers, find coping mechanisms for the emotions, bring closure to past experiences, etc. Medication may be used to treat certain symptoms, such as insomnia or depression.
Sherman Counseling offers confidential PTSD treatment programs. We match each client with the best therapist and/or psychiatrist for their unique needs. If you are interested in PTSD counseling, contact us at 920-733-2065.
