Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It is characterized by symptoms such as intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event, avoidance of triggers associated with the trauma, negative changes in mood and cognition, and increased arousal or reactivity. Individuals with PTSD may also experience significant distress and impairment in various areas of their lives. Treatment for PTSD often involves a combination of therapies, such as trauma-focused therapy and medication management, to help individuals manage their symptoms and regain a sense of control and well-being.
Symptoms
- Intrusive memories: Individuals with PTSD may experience distressing and recurrent memories of the traumatic event(s), often in the form of distressing dreams or flashbacks.
- Avoidance behaviors: Those with PTSD may actively avoid situations, people, or places that remind them of the traumatic event(s) to prevent triggering distressing memories or emotional reactions.
- Hyperarousal: Individuals with PTSD may exhibit heightened levels of anxiety, irritability, and an exaggerated startle response. They may also have difficulty concentrating and experience difficulties with sleep.
- Negative changes in thinking and mood: PTSD can lead to negative thoughts about oneself, others, or the world, feelings of guilt or shame, diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities, and emotional numbness.
- Emotional reactivity: Individuals with PTSD may experience intense and unpredictable emotional reactions, including anger, sadness, fear, or irritability. These emotions may be triggered by reminders of the traumatic event(s) or occur seemingly without a clear cause.
Causes
- Traumatic events: The primary cause of PTSD is exposure to traumatic events, such as physical or sexual assault, military combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, or witnessing a violent or life-threatening event.
- Personal vulnerability: Some individuals may have a higher risk of developing PTSD due to personal factors, including a history of prior trauma, childhood adversity, or a family history of mental health disorders.
- Intensity and duration of trauma: The severity and duration of the traumatic event(s) can impact the likelihood of developing PTSD. Prolonged or repeated exposure to traumatic experiences increases the risk.
- Lack of social support: Inadequate social support systems or a lack of positive relationships can contribute to the development of PTSD. Having a strong support network can help individuals cope with traumatic events.
- Biological factors: Certain biological factors, such as an individual’s genetic makeup or an imbalance in brain chemicals and hormones related to stress and fear response, may play a role in the development of PTSD.
Treatment
Preston Eyerman, PMNHP, offers comprehensive treatment methods for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), helping individuals achieve stability and improve their quality of life. His treatment approach includes a combination of medication management, psychiatric evaluations, therapy, and personalized care plans tailored to each client’s unique needs. Through the telehealth platform at Preston’s Psychiatric Services, clients have the opportunity to meet with him from the comfort of their homes while receiving the highest standard of care for their PTSD.
