Understanding What is PTSD: Essential Trauma-Informed Training and Education

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Jun 10

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Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.

Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.

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.

what is ptsd

Understanding PTSD: An In-depth Look at Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder & Trauma-Informed Training

Key Points Covered in This Article

What PTSD is and its effects
The neurobiology of PTSD
Obtaining help and treatment
Trauma-informed training and education
Frequently asked questions about PTSD

"What is PTSD?". The ‘What’ query is at the core of many pursuits of enlightenment; seeking to comprehend, understand, and ultimately identify options for management and healing.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), formerly known as "shell shock", is a mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It's induced by either experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Such an event could be a significant accident, a natural disaster, a military combat, sexual assault or severe emotional abuse and neglect.

PTSD's Neurobiology: How Does PTSD Affect the Brain?

In the context of PTSD, learning about its neurobiology can help us to comprehend why certain treatments work and others don't. It aids in better understanding the cause of the symptoms and how they impact daily life. PTSD can change the brain in significant ways.

“Unique alterations occur in the brain's structure and chemistry after traumatic exposure, leading to symptoms which can be puzzling and overwhelming.”

Fear Circuit Dysfunction: PTSD not only results in changes in the brain's structural connections but also affects the functioning of the fear circuit. An overactive fear reaction can be seen, which leads to constant anxiety and restlessness.
Hippocampus Volume Changes: The hippocampus is a significant brain area involved in learning and memory functions. Studies have shown a reduction in the size of the hippocampus in individuals with PTSD leading to memory problems.

Getting Help for PTSD: Treatment and Options

PTSD creates life-altering changes in an individual's mental health, but it is treatable. With the right therapeutic approaches and sometimes medication, it is very possible for someone experiencing PTSD to reclaim their life.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): This therapy works by reframing negative thoughts about the trauma, which can help reduce feelings of guilt and blame.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This innovative psychotherapy technique uses eye movements to help process and make sense of traumatic memories.

For a comprehensive list of treatments, you can visit our page on PTSD treatments.

Trauma-Informed Training & Education: A New Approach

At Aura Institute, we advocate for trauma-informed training and education in our professional development courses to build infrastructures that encourage understanding, compassion, and resilience when encountering individuals with PTSD. This educational methodology promotes awareness about trauma, its impact and viable paths towards recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PTSD Be Cured? It may not be possible to entirely "cure" PTSD because the original trauma can't be undone. But, with the right professional help and support, it's possible to manage symptoms and improve quality of life significantly.
Can PTSD Occur Years After an Incident? Yes, sometimes symptoms of PTSD can occur many years after the traumatic event.
Why Does PTSD Occur? PTSD occurs when an individual has difficulty recovering after experiencing a traumatic event. It can occur in any individual, regardless of age or gender.

In the end, understanding PTSD and navigating through the recovery process can be an arduous journey filled with uncertainties. This, amongst many other reasons, underscores the importance of trauma-informed education and professional training in nurturing compassion and resilience.

Remember, if you or a loved one is dealing with PTSD or any other mental health condition, it's crucial to reach out for professional help. Here at Aura Institute, we offer in-person and online support. Wherever you might be in your journey, remember that you are not alone. Healing is possible, and hope is not a myth.

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.