Understanding How Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is Characterized by Experts
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Understanding How Experts Define Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
This article will provide a comprehensive understanding of how post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is looked upon by professionals in psychotherapy, physiology, neurology and related domains. We will delve deep into the characteristic symptoms, causes, risk factors and treatments that are adopted by practitioners when dealing with this condition.
Key Points Covered in this Article
- Characteristics and Symptoms of PTSD
- The Causes Behind PTSD
- Who is at Risk of PTSD
- PTSD and Associated Mental Health Disorders
- Available Treatments for PTSD
- FAQs on PTSD
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is Characterized by
For decades, clinicians and researchers have worked tirelessly to fill in the gaps regarding our understanding of how post traumatic stress disorder is characterized by various symptoms. PTSD is a mental health disorder that's triggered by either experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, often characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
"PTSD affects approximately 3.5% of U.S adults every year, and an estimated one in 11 people will be diagnosed with PTSD in their lifetime. People of all ages can have PTSD." - National Center for PTSD
Characteristics and Symptoms of PTSD
- Intrusive memories: These could be recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the event, or severe emotional or physical reactions to something that reminds the patient of the event.
- Avoidance: This can present as avoiding places, activities or people that remind the patient of the traumatic event, or trying to avoid thinking or talking about said event.
- Negative changes in thinking and mood: This may include feelings of hopelessness, or negative thoughts about oneself or other people, or feeling detached from family and friends.
- Changes in physical and emotional reactions (also called arousal symptoms): These might incorporate being easily startled or frightened, always being on guard for danger, or having trouble sleeping or concentrating.
The Causes Behind PTSD
The cause of PTSD is complex and can be divided into three categories - traumatic experience, inherited mental health risks, and inherited aspects of personality (temperament). It is important to note that people who go through traumatic events may react in different ways and not everyone develops PTSD.
Who is at Risk of PTSD
Anyone who has experienced a life threatening or violent event is at risk of developing PTSD, but some additional factors can significantly increase this risk. These risk factors comprise experiencing intense or long-lasting trauma, having experienced other trauma earlier in life, or having a job that increases one's risk of being exposed to traumatic events.
PTSD and Associated Mental Health Disorders
PTSD seldom occurs in isolation. It is often accompanied by other related mental health disorders like depression, substance abuse, memory problems and other physical and mental health problems.
Available Treatments for PTSD
The primary treatment for PTSD is psychotherapy, but medication can also be used as part of the treatment plan. Self-care strategies such as reaching out to supportive friends and family and making lifestyle changes can also help manage symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about PTSD
- How is PTSD diagnosed?
- Why do some people get PTSD after experiencing trauma while others do not?
- What are the current available treatments for PTSD?
- Will PTSD ever go away completely?
- Can PTSD symptoms appear years after the traumatic event?
- What is the difference between PTSD and Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)?
This is just a primer on the understanding of PTSD. PTSD is a complex and individualized disorder, and our understanding of it is ever-evolving thanks to the continuous efforts of clinicians, researchers, and advocates alike.
Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.