Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. PTSD can cause a range of symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s daily life. However, there are evidence-based treatments available that have been shown to be effective in managing PTSD symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll explore the symptoms of PTSD and in the next, we’ll explore the evidence-based treatments that are available.
Symptoms of PTSD
The symptoms of PTSD can be grouped into four categories: intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.
Intrusion symptoms include:
– Intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event
– Nightmares or flashbacks
– Intense emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the trauma
Avoidance symptoms include:
– Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind you of the traumatic event
– Withdrawing from friends and family
– Loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy
Negative alterations in cognition and mood symptoms include:
– Negative thoughts or feelings about oneself or the world
– Difficulty remembering key aspects of the traumatic event
– Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others
– Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
Alterations in arousal and reactivity symptoms include:
– Hypervigilance or being easily startled
– Angry outbursts or irritability
– Reckless or self-destructive behavior
– Difficulty sleeping
If you or someone you know are struggling with these symptoms, treatment for PTSD may be the next step. In the next blog, I will talk about evidenced-based treatments for PTSD. Stay tuned!