Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: An Informative Guide

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Understanding The Nature of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?
• Signs and Symptoms
• Causes
• Diagnosis and Treatments
• Commonly Asked Questions About PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an example of a disorder that transpires in some individuals who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. This comprehensive guide intends to increase understanding about PTSD, addressing its definition, the signs & symptoms, its causes, as well as the diagnosis and treatment options available.

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition initiated by either experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Those instanced could be a natural disaster, a severe accident, a terrorist act, war, rape, or any significantly disturbing life events.

It's normal to have uneasy feelings, aftershock, and trouble sleeping after a traumatic event. At first, it may be tough to do regular day-to-day activities, like going to work, going to school, or spending time with people you care for. But most people start feeling better after a few weeks or months.

Signs and Symptoms of PTSD

Those enduring PTSD might find themselves frequently distressed by memories of the incident that led to the disorder. Symptoms aren't confined to psychological effects; physical symptoms can occur, too.

• Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event. Severe emotional or physical reaction to reminders of the traumatic event.

• Avoidance: Attempting to avoid reminders of the traumatic event. Avoiding places, objects or thoughts that trigger memories of the event.

• Negative changes in thinking and mood: Negative feelings about oneself or other people; Inability to experience positive emotions.

• Changes in physical and emotional reactions: Being easily startled or frightened; Self-destructive behavior

Causes of PTSD

The cause of PTSD isn't entirely known. However, it is believed to be caused by a complex mix of:

• Stressful Experiences: This includes the amount and severity of traumas experienced or witnessed.

• Inherited mental health risks: This includes stress vulnerability and an increased risk of anxiety and depression.

• Inherited features of your personality: Also often termed as temperament.

• Physical features: How your brain regulates the chemicals and hormones your body releases in response to stress.

Diagnosis and Treatments for PTSD

It's necessary to recognize that not everyone who lives through a dangerous event gets PTSD, and it's not only a condition that military veterans experience. Consult with your healthcare professional for a diagnosis.

Treatment for PTSD generally involves a combination of psychotherapy (talking therapy), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication. The aim is to reduce the emotional and physical symptoms, to improve daily function, and to help the person better cope with the event that triggered the disorder.

"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step." - Mariska Hargitay

Frequently Asked Questions about PTSD

Q1: What does it feel like to have PTSD?

A1: People dealing with PTSD can feel constantly anxious and scared, even when there is no apparent threat. They may re-experience the trauma through intrusive memories and nightmares.

Q2: Can PTSD be cured?

A2: PTSD can be managed with treatment interventions, but it can never be completely eliminated. Treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Q3: How does PTSD affect the brain?

A3: PTSD can change the brain structure, especially the areas responsible for memory and emotion regulation. It can cause abnormal levels of key hormones involved in response to stress.

Q4: How common is PTSD?

A4: PTSD affects anywhere from 7 to 8 percent of the population at some point in their life.

This guide to understanding PTSD is brought to you by the professional team here at Aura Institute. If you want to learn more about mental health or are interested in training in the field, do not hesitate to contact us.

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.