Some of us may think of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as something that primarily affects combat veterans, but the truth is that there are many others who suffer from this psychiatric condition
Some of us may think of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as something that primarily affects combat veterans, but the truth is that there are many others who suffer from this psychiatric condition brought on by exposure to traumatic experiences. Whether it be an accident, a natural disaster, a violent crime, an abusive relationship, or another horrific event, those who experience a trauma, and sometimes even those who simply become aware of the details, are likely to develop Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) in the short term and may struggle with PTSD in the long term.
The following clip gives a good depiction of how symptoms of PTSD can come on without warning, be completed unwanted, and be resolved with some help.
For someone with PTSD, the body’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response brought on by a traumatic event continues to be triggered long after the event is over. It is as if part of their nervous system is still stuck in that awful moment. The person may or may not be aware that their symptoms are connected to their traumatic experience. Particularly when it is undiagnosed, these symptoms can present puzzling problems to individuals and those close to them. Some of them include:
Untreated, the problems created by PTSD symptoms can lead to a number of undesirable outcomes, including substance abuse or other risky behaviors, failed relationships, and poor performance in education or employment.
Our clinicians can help those who struggle with PTSD or other trauma-related disorders using proven techniques for identifying and reprocessing traumatic experiences so that the brain and body can resolve and let go of the stress response that they are stuck in. Contact us today to see how we can help.
To learn more about PTSD and trauma, we recommend:
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
