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Learn More About PTSD

PTSD can leave those impacted by trauma with intrusive and upsetting thoughts and feelings long after the traumatic event(s) happened. These symptoms impact the quality of life and, in some cases, the ability to maintain employment and relationships with others. Fortunately, PTSD is treatable. Below you’ll find articles and resources to help you both understand and deal with PTSD.

What Is PTSD?

Key Terms

Trauma PTSD Flashbacks Hyperarousal Avoidance Behavior PTSD Intrusive Thoughts PTSD Dissociation Nightmares

Trauma refers to an event or series of events that cause emotional, physical, or psychological harm. In PTSD, trauma specifically means experiencing (or being directly exposed to) actual or threatened death, injury, or sexual violence. Trauma is often caused by accidents, violence, abuse, natural disasters, or loss.

PTSD flashbacks are vivid, intrusive memories of the traumatic event that make it feel as though the event is happening again. These are a hallmark symptom of PTSD and can be triggered by reminders of trauma in the environment.

Hyperarousal is a state of heightened alertness and anxiety. People with PTSD may feel tense, easily startled, or have trouble sleeping. It is often a response to the brain being on constant alert after trauma.

Avoidance behavior involves staying away from situations, people, or places that trigger memories of the traumatic event. This can lead to social withdrawal and difficulty confronting the emotional impact of the trauma.

PTSD intrusive thoughts are unwanted, distressing memories or ideas about the trauma. These thoughts can occur suddenly and may be difficult to control, leading to emotional distress.

PTSD dissociation is a coping mechanism where a person feels detached from reality or their own body. It can make individuals feel numb or disconnected from their emotions, as though they are observing themselves from outside.

Nightmares related to trauma are distressing dreams that replay elements of the traumatic event. These can disrupt sleep and lead to anxiety, making it harder for individuals to rest and recover.

FAQs

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health disorder that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.

What causes PTSD?

PTSD is caused by trauma, such as accidents, violence, or natural disasters. Experiencing trauma does not guarantee that someone will develop PTSD. PTSD occurs when difficult symptoms last for at least a month and cause significant distress or make it harder to function at home, work, or school.

Doesn’t PTSD only happen to people who have experienced war?

No. PTSD certainly does occur among some individuals who have experienced combat (e.g., “shell shock”), and veterans and their advocates are among the many who pushed for better understanding and treatment for PTSD. However, civilians who have experienced injury, accidents, abuse, violence, or other traumatic events can develop and be diagnosed with PTSD.

How do I know if I have PTSD?

If you’ve experienced trauma and have symptoms like intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or avoidance of triggers, it may indicate PTSD. Consult a mental health professional for an evaluation.

Can PTSD develop immediately after trauma?

Not always. PTSD can develop immediately or take months or even years to show up, often triggered by reminders of the trauma.

Videos

What is PTSD?
How Trauma and PTSD Change the Brain
Warning Signs of PTSD
“PTSD is a disorder that can make you feel like you’re living in a constant state of fight or flight.”

– American Psychiatric Association

Key Terms

Complex PTSD (CPTSD) Delayed Onset PTSD

Complex PTSD develops after prolonged or repeated trauma, such as long-term abuse or captivity. It includes the core symptoms of PTSD along with additional difficulties like emotional regulation problems, negative self-view, and difficulty trusting others. It often requires specialized treatment to address the effects of chronic trauma.

Delayed onset PTSD occurs when symptoms don’t appear until at least six months after the traumatic event. The delayed reaction can be triggered by new stressors or reminders, making it harder to identify the connection to the original trauma.

FAQs

What is the difference between PTSD and complex PTSD?

Complex PTSD is caused by prolonged or repeated trauma, often involving interpersonal relationships. It includes the typical PTSD symptoms but also emotional regulation difficulties

What is delayed-onset PTSD?

Delayed onset PTSD occurs when symptoms do not appear until at least six months after the trauma. It can be triggered by reminders or life stress.

What is the difference between acute stress disorder and PTSD?

The two are very similar. Acute Stress Disorder is diagnosed when people experience trauma symptoms within the first month after the trauma occurred. PTSD is diagnosed when people experience trauma symptoms at least a month after the trauma occurred.

Can someone have PTSD without flashbacks?

Yes, some people with PTSD may not experience flashbacks but might have other symptoms, like avoidance, hypervigilance, or emotional numbness.

Videos

The Five Types of PTSD
Complex PTSD
CPTSD vs PTSD

Key Terms

Flashbacks Night Terrors Emotional Numbness Guilt Low Self-Esteem Memory Problems Cognitive Distortions

Flashbacks are vivid, intrusive memories of the traumatic event. They can feel like the event is happening again, often triggered by reminders of the trauma.

Night terrors are a common occurrence with PTSD and are disturbing dreams that replay elements of the traumatic experience. These often contribute to feelings of anxiety or fear, disrupting sleep and emotional recovery.

Emotional numbness involves feeling detached from one’s emotions or from others. It is often a protective mechanism to avoid the pain of traumatic memories but can lead to difficulty experiencing joy or emotional connection.

Guilt, often referred to as survivor’s guilt, occurs when a person feels responsible for the trauma, even if they weren’t at fault. This feeling can intensify the emotional toll of the experience and prevent healing.

Low self-esteem often occurs in PTSD, where individuals may view themselves as weak or damaged. This can be linked to feelings of shame or guilt, making it harder to feel worthy of love or support.

Memory issues, especially with recalling specific details of the traumatic event, can occur in PTSD. The brain struggles to process and store traumatic memories, leading to gaps in recall or confusion.

Cognitive distortions in PTSD involve thinking patterns that skew reality, such as believing that the entire world is dangerous or that the person is always in harm’s way. These distorted thoughts can reinforce anxiety and avoidance.

FAQs

What’s the difference between PTSD and stress after a traumatic event?

Stress and PTSD can look somewhat similar, but stress usually resolves fairly soon after the event ends, and symptoms of PTSD last for a month or more. PTSD also involves a variety of symptoms, including intrusive thoughts or memories of the event (like flashbacks or nightmares), avoidance of trauma reminders, changes in thinking and mood, and increased reactivity.

What do some people develop PTSD after trauma and some do not?

Some people have additional risk factors that existed before the trauma, like: genetic predisposition; other mental health diagnoses; experiences of childhood adversity; or previous stressors like discrimination, financial hardship, or abuse.

Videos

Warning Signs of PTSD
The 5 Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD Flashbacks Explained

Key Terms

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Medication

CBT for PTSD helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs related to the trauma. It teaches coping strategies for managing anxiety, flashbacks, and intrusive thoughts. In therapy, individuals work with a therapist to reframe how they view the trauma and reduce emotional distress. This treatment is effective because it directly targets the thoughts that keep the trauma alive in the person’s mind, helping them process and move forward.

EMDR for PTSD uses guided eye movements to help individuals process traumatic memories. It helps to reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories by facilitating new associations and perspectives. During sessions, the person recalls distressing memories while doing an  activity with the senses (e.g., watching a therapist’s hand movements from side to side). EMDR is effective because it directly targets traumatic memories, allowing the brain to reprocess them in a way that reduces their impact.

Prolonged exposure therapy involves gradual, controlled exposure to trauma-related memories, thoughts, and feelings in a safe environment. The therapist helps the person confront their fears without avoiding them. This treatment is effective because repeated exposure helps individuals reduce the emotional charge associated with the trauma, helping them feel less overwhelmed by reminders in the future.

DBT for PTSD is a type of therapy that focuses on building emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal skills. For PTSD, DBT helps individuals manage intense emotions and self-destructive behaviors, especially if they have trouble processing or regulating feelings from past trauma. It is effective because it focuses on acceptance and change, helping individuals feel more balanced in their responses to trauma triggers.

Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used to manage symptoms of PTSD, especially anxiety and depression. These medications can help stabilize mood, reduce hyperarousal, and improve sleep. Medication is often used alongside therapy to address both the psychological and biological aspects of PTSD. It is effective in managing symptoms and supporting the person while they engage in therapy.

FAQs

What is therapy for PTSD like?

Specific approaches vary, but therapy for PTSD usually starts with getting to know your trauma symptoms, how it affects your life, and a little bit about the trauma that happened. You might think about, talk about, or write about the trauma repeatedly over time. However, trauma therapy should always go at a pace that you’re okay with.

Why is therapy an effective treatment for PTSD?

Many therapy approaches help individuals learn new skills to manage the dysregulation that comes with trauma. Many also use exposure, a technique that gradually retrains the brain to learn that memories or reminders of the trauma are not dangerous. This works by slowly engaging with thoughts about the trauma in a controlled, gradual way, rather than avoiding them. Exposure can be challenging, but extremely effective.

Will I have to talk about what happened to me if I do therapy for PTSD?

Oftentimes, it’s essential to talk about the very basics of the trauma for therapy to work well. Some approaches rely on talking or writing in detail about the trauma. However, other approaches, like EMDR, somatic therapies, or even trauma-informed yoga focus more on thinking about the trauma, but releasing the discomfort associated with it through body movements rather than speaking.

Videos

Medication for PTSD
PTSD Treatment Options
CBT for PTSD: A Patient Story

FAQs

How does PTSD affect relationships?

PTSD can lead to difficulties in relationships due to symptoms like emotional numbness, irritability, or avoidance. People may struggle to connect with others, leading to social isolation or communication breakdowns.

Why does someone with PTSD avoid social situations?

Avoidance is a common symptom of PTSD. People may avoid social situations or specific places that remind them of the trauma, fearing they might be triggered or overwhelmed by distressing emotions.

How does PTSD impact communication in relationships?

PTSD can impair communication by causing someone to become withdrawn or overly anxious. It may be difficult for the person to express feelings or engage in healthy discussions due to fear or emotional shutdown.

What can someone with PTSD do to improve their relationships?

Seeking therapy, being open about the condition, and practicing communication skills can help. Being patient with oneself and others, and finding ways to manage triggers, can also improve relationships.

Can PTSD affect physical intimacy?

Yes, PTSD can impact physical intimacy, especially if the trauma involved sexual abuse or assault. A person may feel uncomfortable with touch or avoid intimacy due to fear or emotional distress.

What can I do to support someone with PTSD?

Listen without judgment, encourage them to seek professional help, and be patient. Avoid pressuring them to “get over it” and offer emotional support.

Videos

Understanding PTSD to Support a Spouse
How to Love Someone with CPTSD
How Trauma and PTSD Impact a Relationship

FAQs

How could PTSD affect my life?

PTSD can affect various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and emotional well-being. It may cause difficulties with concentration, trust, or intimacy. The impact varies from person to person but can improve with treatment and support.

Will I be ok if I have PTSD?

Yes, you can manage PTSD with the right treatment, including therapy and, in some cases, medication. Many people with PTSD recover or learn to cope effectively with their symptoms, leading fulfilling lives.

How can I manage PTSD in my daily life?

You can manage PTSD by seeking professional help, practicing self-care, building a support system, and learning coping skills. Healthy routines, relaxation techniques, and stress management are also helpful.

How long does it take to recover from PTSD?

Recovery time varies. Some people experience improvement in a few months, while others may need longer treatment. Ongoing therapy and support can significantly improve long-term outcomes, though PTSD may never completely go away.

What can I do if I feel overhwelmed by PTSD symptoms?

If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to a therapist or support group. Practicing grounding techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, can help manage acute symptoms. Having a trusted person to talk to can also provide relief.

Videos

What It’s Like Living with PTSD
Living with PTSD: Rebecca’s Story
Living with PTSD (and constant disocciation)
“There is no timestamp on trauma. There isn’t a formula that you can insert yourself into to get from horror to healed. Be patient. Take up space. Let your journey be the balm.”

– Dawn Serra

Key Terms

Comorbidity Overlap

This means having more than one mental health condition at the same time. It’s common with PTSD and can affect how symptoms appear and how treatment works.

Some conditions share similar symptoms (like worry or avoidance) but they have different causes, patterns, or treatments.

FAQs

Are PTSD and depression related?

PTSD and depression are often comorbid. Symptoms like sadness, lack of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating overlap with PTSD’s emotional numbing and avoidance. Experiencing trauma can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions, even if someone does not have a comorbid diagnosis of depression.

Are PTSD and bipolar disorder related?

PTSD and bipolar disorder are often comorbid, and people with PTSD are at higher risk of developing bipolar disorder than people who do not have PTSD. Researchers are still learning why there appears to be some overlap in genetic risk for both disorders.

Are PTSD and anxiety disorders related?

PTSD and anxiety disorders are often comorbid. PTSD and anxiety disorders share some common features, including hypervigilance, being easily startled, difficulty concentrating, and avoidance. However, anxiety disorders can start at any time, while PTSD develops after a traumatic event.

Are PTSD and OCD related?

PTSD and OCD can be comorbid. Both involve unwanted intrusive thoughts that cause distress and an extreme avoidance of triggers that begin to interrupt the ability to function. However, OCD can start at any time, while PTSD develops after a traumatic event.

Are PTSD and borderline personality disorder (BPD) related?

Traumas like childhood abuse and emotional neglect are major risk factors for borderline personality disorder. However, not all children who experience these traumas go on to develop a personality disorder.

Are PTSD and psychosis related?

Having PTSD can increase the risk of developing psychosis later, but only some people with PTSD go on to develop psychosis. Psychosis can be caused by other disorders, like bipolar disorders or schizophrenia.

Are PTSD and substance use disorders related?

Trauma and substance use disorders are often comorbid. People with PTSD may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with distressing symptoms. Substance use can temporarily numb emotional pain but worsens symptoms in the long term.

Videos

Social Anxiety and Complex PTSD
The Overlap of PTSD with Depression and Anxiety
The Interplay Between PTSD and OCD

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