Do you suffer from PTSD?

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious and complex mental health issue that is treatable through medicine and psychotherapy. PTSD can occur after exposure to a traumatic event or as a result of continued adversity. It is a psychological reaction to extreme stress that can often lead someone to experience significant depression or anxiety. In addition to the emotional components of PTSD, the mental health disorder has strong roots in nuero-biology.

Chronic exposure to stress increases the likelihood of PTSD

Traumatic events can include witnessing violence, being a victim of abuse, unexpected illness or death and a lack of support, or a combination of these experiences. It’s important to note that individuals can develop PTSD through both direct and indirect exposure to violence, abuse, or trauma.

Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event or is exposed to extreme stress will develop PTSD

Many factors play a role in experiencing PTSD and the condition is very much dependent upon resiliency factors .For example, the age at which an individual experienced a tragic event plays a part in the development of PTSD. Individuals who were exposed to a traumatic event at a young age are more likely to develop PTSD than those who are older. Further, people who have pre-existing mental health conditions are more inclined to suffer from PTSD.

Social support is the number one buffer to PTSD, having a strong social support group is a primary protective factor

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th edition (DSM-5), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is characterized by a combination of symptoms including exposure to adverse situations, intrusive or avoidant reactions, changes in mood, thinking, or behavior, and shifts in arousal or reactivity.

Many individuals who suffer from PTSD will also experience depression and/or anxiety and may feel isolated or alone. PTSD can negatively impact outlook making it difficult for individuals to experience positive emotions or feelings. Individuals with PTSD often experience difficulty with thinking and concentrating, and may experience irritability or aggression.

If you or someone you love shows signs of PTSD seek help immediately!

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder significantly impacts well being and can lead to long term illness or death.

Individuals who suffer from PTSD are more likely to engage in high risk-taking behavior and the physiological affects of trauma leave one susceptible to life-threatening illnesses.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a traumatic event or has been exposed to extreme or chronic stress, you may be at risk for PTSD. An evaluation by a licensed professional is necessary for the diagnosis, only a trained medical professional can treat the condition.

For more information on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment, please visit www.TherapywithRaquel.com

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Raquel Buchanan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #118976) in Palm Springs California She offers counseling and therapy to individuals, families, and children.