PTSD

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that develops when a traumatic event causes long-term negative effects, including intrusive thoughts, negativity, and avoidance behaviors.

PTSD was originally known as shell shock and combat fatigue because the symptoms and behaviors were initially noticed and diagnosed in service people during and after World Wars I and II. The condition is characterized by reliving the event in flashbacks, anxiety, and disruptive emotional patterns and behaviors.

If you experience a traumatic event like a natural disaster, mass shooting, or sexual or personal assault, it’s common and normal to have these symptoms in the days and weeks following the event. However, over time, these symptoms should slowly decrease and disappear. 

PTSD occurs when flashbacks, nightmares, and other symptoms last for months or even years after the event, causing significant distress and disruption to your normal activities.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms typically develop in four different categories. Each person has a unique experience, and these symptoms are present in a spectrum of severity. You may not experience everything listed, or you may have symptoms that are not included in this list.

Intrusive thoughts

PTSD causes intrusive thoughts, memories, dreams, and flashbacks that are so vivid you feel like you’re reliving the trauma. 

Avoidance behaviors

Avoidance behaviors like staying away from people or places that remind you of the trauma or suppressing thoughts or memories are common symptoms of PTSD.

Negative thought patterns

Negative thoughts about yourself or others involved in the event, like survivor’s guilt or anger, fear, and shame, are a side effect of PTSD.

Abnormal behaviors

PTSD can cause a variety of abnormal behaviors and reactions, including angry outbursts, being easily startled, or sleep disorders.

How is PTSD treated?

The team at Open Mind Psychiatry provides a detailed consultation and thorough assessment of your symptoms. 

They create a patient-focused customized treatment plan to reduce your PTSD symptoms. While each person has different needs, treatment plans for PTSD typically include a combination of medication and therapy. 

For example, you may benefit from psychotherapy modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to learn to recognize your thoughts and feelings and learn to respond in different, healthier ways.

If you or someone you love lives with PTSD, call Open Mind Psychiatry or request an appointment online today.