PTSD
Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is categorized as an anxiety disorder. It can manifest soon after experiencing a trauma (acute disorder) or may have a delayed onset, with symptoms presenting more than 6 months post-trauma. PTSD arises from extreme, often unforeseen events such as physical or sexual assault, accidents, natural or man-made disasters, war, and military combat.
Although many associate PTSD primarily with military personnel, the reality is that anyone can develop PTSD. It emerges when individuals are exposed to, or under the threat of death or grave physical harm. Moreover, witnessing such events happening to a close acquaintance or relative can also induce PTSD.
A common factor in these traumatic events is they often evoke feelings of intense fear, helplessness, and horror.
Symptoms of PTSD
Physical
- Appetite fluctuations (increase or decrease)
- Excessive consumption of drugs or alcohol
- Feeling of tension or agitation
Emotional
- Stress and anxiety
- Anger
- A sense of emotional numbness
Cognitive
- Flashbacks of the traumatic event
- A dip in self-esteem
Main Types of PTSD Symptoms
Reliving the Trauma
Distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks often plague the individual. This can also be a severe psychological distress when exposed to cues resembling the traumatic event. Such manifestations include recurring and distressing recollections like images, thoughts, or even feeling as if the trauma is reoccurring in real-time.
Avoidance and Emotional Numbness
Individuals tend to emotionally distance themselves, avoid reminders of the traumatic event, and show a reduced general response. This includes:
Actively avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations associated with the trauma.
Dodging activities, places, or people that stir memories of the trauma.
An inability to recall significant parts of the traumatic event.
Persistent Anxiety and Physical Tension
This leads to feelings of detachment or disconnection from others, difficulty in concentration, hypervigilance, and being easily startled. The individual may also display heightened aggression, irritability, and a lack of enthusiasm for social interactions.
The symptoms of PTSD can drastically impact relationships, employment, and daily activities.
How We Can Help
Our psychologists are equipped to assist you in managing the symptoms of PTSD, helping minimize their interference in your life.
If you suspect you might be grappling with PTSD or seek assistance to manage its effects, please contact us.
