Achieving Healing from
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is a condition that often arises in response to witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. Though many mistakenly believe this only happens with veterans who go through the horrors of war, PTSD can be experienced by anyone. Symptoms of PTSD can be powerful and isolating. Know that you are not powerless, and you are not alone, therapy can help.
PTSD Symptoms
It is not uncommon for someone to experience considerable anxiety after exposure to life-threatening events. However, PTSD is different from ordinary anxiety. You may find yourself vividly reliving your traumatic experience in various ways such as bad dreams, repeated intrusive memories and/or involuntary flashbacks.
Hyper-arousal is also common; you may become startled easily and could even take a defensive stance when this happens. PTSD symptoms can also include hypervigilance, a state of constant, fearful watchfulness arising from a perception of threat.
Similarly, persons with this disorder often exhibit avoidance; you may stay away from places, events, objects, and/or people that remind you of the traumatic event. You may even have a hard time remembering the event itself. It is not usual for those with PTSD to experience depressed mood and numbness, even losing interest in activities that you used to enjoy.
When is it PTSD?
PTSD symptoms can be complicated, and even cause strain on close relationships. Not everyone who experiences severe anxiety after a traumatic event will be classified as having PTSD. Some may experience similar symptoms, though they will last less than two weeks. This condition is referred to as Acute Stress Disorder (ASD). In PTSD, the symptoms will persist for longer than a month; in many cases symptoms will not resolve on their own.
Symptoms of PTSD can seriously impact family life as those with this disorder tend to isolate themselves and may reject their loved ones’ efforts to reach out to them. You may find yourself becoming unreasonably angry and may even react differently than you may have in the past. These symptoms can create a stressful and sometimes unpredictable environment for those who live with you.
Recovering from PTSD
It can take a visit to a professional to determine whether or not a person has PTSD or ASD. Likewise, therapy can be beneficial for those experiencing symptoms as well as those closest to them. For many, the sooner you seek treatment the better.
If you think you are ready to address symptoms of PTSD, get in touch with Carolina Counseling Services – Southern Pines, NC. Here you will find licensed, independently contracted therapists who can give you the support you so rightfully deserve. Call today to schedule your first appointment!
PO BOX 9909 Fayetteville, NC 28311