Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological disorder that may arise subsequent to an individual’s exposure to or observation of a traumatic occurrence. According to estimates, a percentage ranging from 7 to 8 of individuals will encounter Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at some stage throughout their lifetime. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has the potential to impact individuals of all ages, gender and backgrounds.
1. Symptoms
The symptoms of PTSD can be grouped into four categories: intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, and hyperarousal.
Intrusion symptoms include:
- Flashbacks, which are like re-living the traumatic event
- Nightmares
- Intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event
Avoidance symptoms include:
- Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event, such as people, places, or things associated with it
- Avoiding talking about the traumatic event
- Feeling emotionally numb or detached from others
Negative alterations in cognitions and mood symptoms include:
- Negative beliefs or thoughts about oneself, others, or the world
- Blaming oneself or others for the traumatic event
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Feeling detached from loved ones
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
Hyperarousal symptoms include:
- Being easily startled or frightened
- Feeling tense or “on edge”
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability or angry outbursts
2. Causes of PTSD
PTSD is caused by exposure to a traumatic event. Traumatic events that can lead to PTSD include:
- Military combat
- Sexual or physical assault
- Natural disasters
- Serious accidents
- Sudden death of a loved one
PTSD can also develop as a result of ongoing or repeated trauma, such as ongoing abuse or neglect.
Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD. Risk factors for developing PTSD include:
- Previous traumatic experiences
- Family history of mental health conditions
- Lack of social support
- Substance use
3. Treatment
Treatment for PTSD typically involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. The most effective treatments for PTSD are evidence-based psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy (PE), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
CBT helps people with PTSD identify and change negative thoughts and beliefs related to the traumatic event. PE involves gradually facing and processing traumatic memories through imaginal exposure and in vivo exposure. EMDR involves focusing on a traumatic memory while simultaneously following an external stimulus, such as eye movements.
Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can be helpful in reducing symptoms of PTSD, such as anxiety and depression.
Other treatments for PTSD may include mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and alternative therapies, such as yoga or acupuncture.
It is crucial to pursue expert assistance in the event that an individual, or someone they are acquainted with, is grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder. A qualified mental health practitioner is capable of rendering an accurate diagnosis and collaborating with you to devise a customised intervention strategy aimed at mitigating symptoms and enhancing your overall well-being. PTSD can be overcome through appropriate treatment and support.
