What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
Are there memories of your past that bother you constantly? Intrusive experiences in your past that get in the way of everyday life? Momentary lapses where you find yourself reliving those bad memories?
PTSD is a specific type of anxiety disorder that develops after you experience a traumatizing event such as a mass shooting, natural disaster, severe accident, or personal attack. Anyone can develop PTSD after a traumatic event, although statistically, women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with PTSD when compared to men.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
In most cases, PTSD symptoms develop within three months of the experience, although your symptoms may not emerge until later when something triggers your memories. PTSD symptoms develop in four distinct categories.
- Intrusive thoughts
Flashbacks and nightmares are two of the most common manifestations of PTSD-related intrusive thoughts.
- Avoidance behaviors
You may begin to avoid places and people who remind you of the trauma and trigger your intrusive thoughts or memories.
- Negative thoughts
PTSD can also cause feelings of horror, anger, blame, or guilt.
- Arousal and reactivity symptoms
The symptoms of arousal from PTSD are generally constant. While these symptoms can be triggered from events that remind the affected individual of the traumatic event, heightened reactivity can also be stemmed from any outside stimuli in daily life.
The treatment of PTSD can be complicated, but we at Houston Mind and Brain are more than capable of putting you or your loved ones on the path of recovery and wellness. We can provide you with the medication you need to handle your symptoms of PTSD.
Are you struggling or a loved one struggling with PTSD?
Schedule a consultation with us today and see how we can best help you.
