PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
WHAT IS PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition that results from experiencing or witnessing an extremely stressful or traumatic event, including war, personal assault, or a natural disaster. A person suffering from PTSD can experience nightmares, extreme anxiety, depression, and flashbacks. Symptoms from PTSD can last for extended periods of time, be debilitating, and interfere with day-to-day activities.
An estimated 1 in 11 will be diagnosed with PTSD in their lifetime.
WHAT ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF PTSD?
-
This symptom includes re-living the traumatic event in nightmares, flashbacks, or difficult memories. It can cause a patient to feel as if they are experiencing the traumatic event all over again.
-
Someone with PTSD may begin to avoid people, places, or activities that can trigger disturbing memories. Often a patient will withdraw from interactions but resist discussing why.
-
This disorder is marked by continued distorted feelings about oneself or other people. It can include being fearful of social interactions, depression, distrust of others, or even guilt or shame.
-
Patients suffering from PTSD may become irritable or angry. Symptoms also include recklessness or self-destructive behavior, and sleeplessness.
WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most researched psychotherapy for psychotic episodes. In general, CBT focuses on sorting through what a patient believes is real or imaginary. CBT is often most effective when used in conjunction with antipsychotic medication.
PROLONGED EXPOSURE THERAPY
Prolonged Exposure Therapy is a form of CBT that uses a methodology that gradually introduces a patient to activities and settings that trigger PTSD symptoms. The therapy can include sessions that explore the triggering events with a transition outside of therapy. PE Therapy works to modify a patient’s reactions to various stimuli to reduce fearful and stressful responses.
EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING (EMDR)
PTSD therapy is focused on changing a patient’s reaction to the memory of their traumatic event. The goal of EMDR is to find an alternative for a patient’s focus like eye movements, lights, or finger tapping. Over time, EMDR can reduce the symptoms and severity of a patient’s reaction to their memories.
MEDICATION
Serotonergic Antidepressants (SSRIs). Some antidepressants may also be useful for treating anxiety and depression related to PTSD. These medications can help modify a patient’s reaction to triggering memories and stimuli.
Antipsychotic Medication. Patients who suffer from agitation, intense distrust, or aggression have experienced relief from antipsychotic medications. These drugs are often prescribed in combination with SSRIs to manage the full spectrum of PTSD.
Prazosin is often used to ease nightmares and other nocturnal disturbances that affect sleep. Numerous studies have shown the drug to be effective at controlling those episodes. Individuals considering Prazosin should speak with a doctor to determine whether or not their particular situation might merit a trial of this drug.
SELF MANAGEMENT
Yoga
Relaxation
Exercise
Mindfulness
HOW DO I GET HELP?
BECOME AN EXPERT
Learn about medication and treatment options. Keep up with current research. Build a personal library of useful websites and helpful books.
KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS AND STRESSORS
If large groups make you nervous, plan to see the Sunday matinee. If taking a walk outdoors reduces your anxiety before a big meeting, schedule a 10-minute walk before the meeting starts. Being mindful of triggers and stressors will help you live your life with fewer limitations.
PARTNER WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS
Actively participate in your treatment by working with mental health care professionals to develop a plan that works for you. Talk with them about your goals, decide on a recovery pace you’re comfortable with, and stick to your plan. Don’t quit when something doesn’t go well. Instead, talk to your doctor or therapist about possible changes.
GET HEALTHY
Studies have reported that 30 minutes of vigorous, aerobic exercise can eliminate symptoms, while low-key activities like meditation, yoga or Tai Chi relieve stress. Regular exercise can reduce many symptoms. Diet is also an important factor, so try to eat healthy, balanced meals and pay attention to food sensitivities. In some people, certain foods or additives can cause unpleasant physical reactions, which may lead to irritability or anxiety.
AVOID DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
These substances may seem to help with anxiety at first but can disrupt emotional balance, sleep cycles, and interact with medications. Coffee, energy drinks, and cigarettes worsen anxiety.
