PTSD

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. It's not limited to combat veterans; it can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as natural disasters, accidents, assaults, or other life-threatening events.

What causes PTSD?

While experiencing trauma is the primary trigger, individual factors like genetic predisposition, brain chemistry, personality traits, and the availability of social support can all influence whether someone develops PTSD after experiencing trauma. 

In addition, the severity and duration of the trauma, as well as previous exposure to traumatic events, can increase the risk of developing PTSD.

How is PTSD diagnosed?

Diagnosing PTSD involves a thorough assessment by a mental health professional. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines specific criteria for diagnosing PTSD, including:

• Exposure to a traumatic event
• Re-experiencing symptoms (such as flashbacks or nightmares)
• Avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event
• Negative changes in mood and cognition
• Heightened arousal and reactivity

Symptoms must persist for at least one month and cause significant distress or impairment in daily functioning to warrant a diagnosis of PTSD. In addition, the Calm Psych team can also perform genetic testing upon request.

How is PTSD treated?

At Calm Psych, treatment for PTSD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support from loved ones. 

Therapy

The team may use cognitive-behavioral therapies, such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and prolonged exposure therapy (PE), to help you process traumatic memories, challenge negative beliefs, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. 

Your provider may also use eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which helps you process traumatic memories.

Medications

They may prescribe medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, or insomnia commonly associated with PTSD.

Lifestyle changes

Supportive interventions like group therapy, peer support, and educational programs can also benefit you. Building a strong support network and engaging in self-care activities like exercise, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness practices can further enhance your recovery.  

The Calm Psych team develops a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and circumstances. They offer proper support so you can experience significant improvement in your quality of life.

If you or a loved one has signs of PTSD, schedule an assessment at Calm Psych today by phone or online today.