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Writer's pictureTamara Seerkissoon

What is PTSD? Investigating Symptoms & Causes


Week 8 of the series and this week we are taking a look at PTSD


Imagine living in a world where every day is a constant battle with fear and anxiety. This is what it’s like for those living with PTSD. Traumatic events can haunt them, causing vivid flashbacks and intrusive thoughts. They may struggle to sleep at night, feel detached from loved ones, and find it hard to function in daily life. The constant state of hypervigilance and fear can make it difficult to form close relationships and trust others, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Despite these challenges, with the right support and treatment, individuals with PTSD can learn to manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.


What Is PTSD?

PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, combat, sexual assault, or any other traumatic experience. People with PTSD can experience a range of symptoms including flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, feelings of guilt or shame, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms can significantly impact their daily life and relationships, making it difficult to feel like themselves again. However, with appropriate treatment and support, individuals with PTSD can regain control of their symptoms and improve their quality of life.


How Common Is PTSD?

PTSD is a common condition that affects people all over the world. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 3-5% of the general population will develop PTSD at some point in their lives. The prevalence of PTSD is higher among certain groups, such as military personnel, first responders, and survivors of sexual assault or abuse. In conflict-affected and disaster-prone areas, the prevalence of PTSD can be even higher. It’s important to note that PTSD can affect people of all ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds. While PTSD is a common condition, it’s also treatable with the right support and care.


What Are The Symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD can cause a wide range of symptoms that can impact an individual’s daily life. Some common symptoms of PTSD include:

  1. Intrusive thoughts: Recurrent and distressing memories, thoughts, or images of the traumatic event.

  2. Avoidance behaviors: Avoiding places, people, or activities that may trigger memories of the traumatic event.

  3. Negative changes in thoughts and mood: Feelings of guilt, shame, or fear; difficulty experiencing positive emotions; distorted beliefs about oneself or others.

  4. Arousal and reactivity symptoms: Difficulty sleeping, irritability, anger outbursts, being easily startled, or feeling on edge.

  5. Flashbacks: Re-experiencing the traumatic event as if it were happening in the present moment.

  6. Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the traumatic event.

It’s important to note that everyone experiences PTSD differently and the severity and frequency of symptoms can vary from person to person. If you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional.

What Causes PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be caused by exposure to a traumatic event, such as: Combat or military exposure Natural disasters Sexual or physical assault Accidents Witnessing a traumatic event Childhood abuse or neglect Terrorism Sudden death of a loved one Any other life-threatening or traumatic experience PTSD can develop in individuals who have directly experienced a traumatic event or have been indirectly exposed to it, such as through repeated exposure to traumatic material as a first responder or journalist. Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD, and some individuals who have experienced multiple traumatic events may not develop PTSD until later in life. The development of PTSD is influenced by a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors, and the likelihood of developing PTSD can be influenced by an individual’s mental and physical health, their support system, and their coping strategies.


How Is PTSD Diagnosed?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. The diagnosis of PTSD typically involves a thorough evaluation of the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and exposure to traumatic events.


The mental health professional will conduct a clinical interview to assess the individual’s symptoms and gather information about their traumatic experiences. They may use standardized questionnaires or self-report measures to gather information about the frequency and intensity of symptoms. They may also ask about any other mental health conditions or substance use that could be contributing to the symptoms.


A diagnosis of PTSD requires that an individual experience specific symptoms for at least one month, and that these symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in their daily life. In addition, the symptoms must not be better accounted for by another medical condition or substance use.


It’s important to note that a diagnosis of PTSD is not made based on a single test or evaluation. A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.


What Treatments Are Available For PTSD?

There are several effective treatments available for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Some of the most commonly used treatments include:


Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals change the negative thoughts and behaviors associated with their traumatic experiences.


Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy involves gradually and safely exposing the individual to the thoughts, feelings, and situations that trigger their symptoms, with the goal of reducing their fear and anxiety.


Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a type of therapy that involves the use of eye movements, or other forms of bilateral stimulation, to process traumatic memories and reduce the associated distress.


Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, may be helpful in reducing symptoms of PTSD. These medications can be prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist.


Group therapy: Group therapy can provide a supportive environment where individuals with PTSD can share their experiences and feelings with others who have been through similar experiences.


Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and yoga, can help individuals with PTSD manage their symptoms and reduce their levels of stress and anxiety.


It’s important to note that different people may respond differently to different treatments, and what works for one person may not work for another. A mental health professional can work with individuals with PTSD to determine the best course of treatment for their specific needs and circumstances. A combination of treatments, such as therapy and medication, may be most effective in managing the symptoms of PTSD.


Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but it’s important to remember that with the right support and care, individuals with PTSD can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives. If you or someone close to you may have PTSD, it’s important to seek help. The road to recovery may not be easy, but it’s a journey worth taking. Seeking help is a sign of strength and a step towards healing and finding peace.


There is a community of support available to you, including family, friends, and mental health professionals who are dedicated to helping you overcome the challenges of PTSD. With the right resources and support, you can find hope, healing, and a brighter future. Don’t wait to seek help, as the sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a successful recovery. You deserve to live a life free from the burden of PTSD, and there are people and resources available to help you get there.

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