You have experienced something very unpleasant, you regularly have unpleasant memories or nightmares, you suddenly feel like you did during the trauma, you avoid situations that remind you of the trauma or that frighten you, you have sudden outbursts of anger, and you feel very tense. You notice that you are no longer functioning properly at work, school, or in your social life.
In brief
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event. You may continue to experience recurring anxiety, flashbacks, or startle responses. Treatment includes psychotherapy (such as EMDR), medication, and self-care.
What is trauma or PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after a shocking or life-threatening event. Examples include violence, an accident, sexual abuse, maltreatment, or war experiences. After such an experience, the body remains in a state of heightened alertness. You may feel anxious, experience flashbacks, or be irritable. You often avoid situations or people that remind you of the trauma.
These symptoms can have a major impact on your daily life and functioning. PTSD is highly treatable, and it is important to seek help.
Causes of PTSD
Why some people develop PTSD and others do not is not always clear. However, there are a number of factors that contribute to its development:
- Severity and nature of the trauma: events such as child abuse or war increase the risk.
- Duration and intensity: the longer and more intense the event, the greater the impact.
- Meaning of the event: the way in which someone processes an experience differs from person to person.
- Vulnerability: unpleasant experiences in early childhood or genetic predisposition can make the stress system more sensitive.
- Protection: Support from others and active coping behaviors can actually protect against developing PTSD.
Treatment
The treatment of trauma and PTSD consists of several components, depending on your symptoms and preferences:
Psychotherapy
When treating trauma, we frequently use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). This form of therapy helps reduce the emotional impact of distressing memories. We also use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is used to identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts. Together with your therapist, you’ll work toward recovery and regaining control of your life.
Medication
Sometimes temporary medication, such as antidepressants or sedatives, is prescribed to support treatment. Medication is only used when truly necessary, always in consultation with a doctor.
Lifestyle advice and self-management (self-care)
A healthy lifestyle supports recovery. This includes getting enough rest, exercise, healthy nutrition, and avoiding alcohol and drugs. Relaxation exercises, mindfulness, or breathing techniques can help reduce tension in the body.
Psychoeducation
You will receive an explanation of what PTSD is, how it works, and what you can do to better cope with your symptoms. Loved ones are often involved as well, so that they can better understand what is going on and provide support.
What do you notice?
- Flashbacks or nightmares about a traumatic event
- Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind you of the trauma
- Feelings of anxiety, irritability, or outbursts of anger
- Sleep problems or concentration problems
- Increased alertness or startle responses
- Difficulty functioning at work, school, or in relationships
- Feelings of guilt or shame
Treatment Methods
Want to know more?
Please contact us to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your path to recovery.
We are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the following telephone number:
