Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a life-threatening or terrifying event- either experiencing it or witnessing it. Most people who go through a traumatic event may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping that can last for months or even years. There is hope! With time, a supportive team, a healthy environment, and good self-care the symptoms will become manageable and life can get better. Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Common causes for PTSD are:
- Experiencing intense long-lasting trauma like combat exposure, or emergency first responders
- Having experienced an abusive or traumatic childhood
- Physical or Sexual Assault
- Being threatened with a weapon
- Other traumatic events such as an accident, fire, natural disaster, robbery, plane crash, torture, kidnapping, life-threatening diagnosis, terrorist attack, or other extreme life-threatening events.
Symptoms are normally grouped into four categories:
- Intrusive Memories – recurring, unwanted, & distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares.
- Avoidance – Attempting to avoid thinking or talking about the event, and/or avoiding people, places, or events that may remind you of the trauma.
- Negative Changes in Thinking & Mood – Negative thoughts about yourself or others, hopelessness, memory problems, difficulty maintaining close relationships, lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed, difficulty feeling positive emotions, or feeling numb.
- Changes in Physical & Emotional Reactions – Being easily startled or frightened, constantly being on guard, self-destructive behavior like drinking too much or driving too fast, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, trouble concentrating, overwhelming guilt or shame, irritability, angry or aggressive behaviors & outbursts.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms please know that there is help. There are many natural ways to treat PTSD and begin the process of recovery from the traumas of life. Through integrative medicine, emotional support, physical therapy, proper nutrition, and a peaceful supportive environment real healing can begin.
