In response to a traumatic event, a person might get overly overwhelmed and frightened. Generally, feelings of sadness and anxiety fade away with time. However, if these feelings persist, the person might be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
About PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental disorder that occurs following a traumatic event. The person believes himself to be in a constant state of danger and has painful memories of the horrific event. It brings about feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
PTSD is quite common among rape victims and surviving soldiers. It can also affect people who have witnessed horrific events, like emergency workers.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD is triggered differently in different people. For some, it can be triggered hours after the event took place. For others, it could be years later that a voice or an image reminds them of the terrible event.
Here are some of the symptoms of PTSD:
- Re-experiencing the traumatic event – such as memories of the event, flashbacks, nightmares, etc.
- Avoidance or numbing – like loss of interest in life’s activities, feeling emotional detachments, etc.
- State of hyperarousal – like aggressiveness, angry outbursts, etc.
- Negativity – feelings of mistrust, depression, hopelessness, guilt, shame, etc.
Treatment of PTSD
It is very important that help is immediately sought once any of these symptoms are experienced.
PTSD is a state of lack of control and the earlier you seek to confront the issue, the better it will be.
Here are some treatment approaches for PTSD:
Trauma Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
In this type of treatment procedure, the therapist gradually exposes the patient to the thoughts and feelings associated with the trauma. He/she then aims to replace irrational, distorted thought patterns with productive ones. The goal is to give the patient a fresher and more balanced perspective on the event.
Family Therapy
As the name suggests, this type of therapy brings in your family. The goal is to improve relationships and equip family members to help deal better with the condition.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is an effective therapeutic procedure for PTSD. With incredible imagery and relaxation techniques, it aims to shift thought patterns in a more productive manner. It also provides effective strategies to help patients deal better with their condition.
Your therapist might combine any of these approaches.
Rekha Shrivastava is a certified hypnotist and rehabilitation counselor. Thoroughly understanding the disease, she provides effective ways to manage post-traumatic stress disorder. Learn more about her services.
Sources
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/ptsd-symptoms-self-help-treatment.htm
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