What Is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which is sometimes also referred to as Post Traumatic Injury, occurs when an experience overwhelms our brain’s ability to process it, make sense of it, and move on from it.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can affect people who have experienced or witnessed overwhelming events. Symptoms of PTSD can include feeling unsafe, difficulties with relationships and intimacy, flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, avoidance of triggers related to the trauma, negative mood changes, and being chronically on alert and hypervigilant. These symptoms can linger long after the traumatic event and can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
There are various treatment options available for individuals with PTSD, including psychotherapy, medication, and alternative therapies. Somatic psychotherapy can be particularly effective for those with PTSD. With somatic psychotherapy, clients are encouraged to explore the physical sensations linked to their trauma, allowing them to connect their emotions with bodily sensations. This can lead to increased awareness and understanding of their emotional state, providing a secure space for clients to process their trauma.
Other forms of therapy commonly used for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), exposure therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Each type of therapy works uniquely to help clients manage their symptoms and regain control of their lives.
It's crucial for individuals with PTSD to seek help from a mental health professional. With the right treatment and support, many individuals are capable of effectively managing their symptoms and living fulfilling lives.
What Therapies are Useful in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment?
Experiencing or witnessing an overwhelming or traumatic event can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of trauma may include intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of triggers, and emotional numbness. Fortunately, PTSD is treatable, and there are various types of therapy available to help individuals overcome their symptoms.
Psychotherapy is the most common type of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment. It involves working with a therapist to explore and process the emotions and thoughts surrounding the traumatic event. This therapy can be delivered through individual or group sessions and may include different approaches, such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), exposure therapy, and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
EMDR is a unique type of therapy that uses eye movements to help the patient process traumatic memories. During a session, the therapist will ask the patient to follow a moving light or a finger while thinking about the traumatic memory. This technique is believed to activate the brain's natural healing process, which can help reduce the intensity of the trauma.
CBT is a psychotherapy that focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviours. The therapist helps the patient identify unhelpful patterns of thinking and teaches them new coping skills to manage anxiety and stress. In exposure therapy, patients gradually confront their traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment to help them overcome their avoidance and fear of the trauma.
Other types of PTSD treatment include medication and complementary therapies like yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to PTSD treatment, the best course of action is to work with a qualified mental health professional who can create an individualized treatment plan based on the patient's needs and preferences.
Psychotherapy can be an effective tool for individuals struggling with PTSD. It provides a safe space to explore difficult emotions and memories, develop coping strategies, and move toward healing and resolution. With the right treatment plan, individuals can learn to manage their PTSD symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
How Does PTSD Treatment Work?
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs when an experience overwhelms our brain’s ability to process it, make sense of it, and move on from it. It could be thought of as an “information processing error” in the brain. Ultimately, the goal of all PTSD treatment is to correct this error and help the brain process the traumatic memory.
There are various types of treatments available for PTSD, including therapy and medication. PTSD therapy often involves a combination of talk therapy and exposure therapy.
In talk therapy, a trained therapist works with the patient to explore their emotions and feelings related to the traumatic event. The goal of this therapy is to help the patient understand how their thoughts and behaviours contribute to their PTSD symptoms.
Exposure therapy involves gradual exposure to the traumatic material, which might included memories, sensations, emotions, situations or triggers that remind the person of the traumatic event. This exposure helps the patient confront and overcome their fears and anxieties.
Aside from therapy, medication can also be used to alleviate PTSD symptoms. Common medications include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, and sleep aids. These medications work to reduce symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
PTSD treatment may take time, but with appropriate support and care, patients can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives. It is crucial for anyone experiencing PTSD to seek professional help and support from a qualified therapist or healthcare provider.
