PTSD

What is PTSD?

It’s not uncommon to have difficulty coping or adjusting after going through a traumatic event. You may feel anxious, have a strong desire to avoid people or places that remind you of the trauma, or have nightmares. However, with good support and self-care, most people recover from their traumatic experience and feel better.

With PTSD, you don’t get better. In fact, your symptoms get worse and interfere with your ability to manage your day-to-day responsibilities. 

PTSD affects people of all ages. However, you may be at greater risk of developing the mental health condition if the trauma is ongoing, occurred during childhood, or you have an underlying mental health issue such as anxiety or depression.

What are the signs and symptoms of PTSD?

Signs and symptoms of PTSD usually develop within three months of the traumatic event. However, it’s not unusual for symptoms to develop years later.

PTSD symptoms are grouped into types, which include:

• Re-experiencing symptoms (flashbacks and nightmares)
• Avoidance symptoms (avoiding people or activities that remind you of the trauma)
• Arousal and reactivity symptoms (being easily startled or quick to anger)
• Cognition symptoms (difficulty remembering details of the event)
• Mood symptoms (feelings of guilt or shame, negative view of yourself or the world)

To be diagnosed with PTSD, you must experience one symptom from each type for at least a month, and the symptoms must be so severe that they affect your daily life. 

How is PTSD treated?

PTSD affects everyone differently, and no single treatment works for all. However, treatment for PTSD usually includes:

Medications

Antidepressants are the most common type of medication prescribed for people with PTSD. Antidepressants improve feelings of sadness and anger.

You may also benefit from other medications to manage sleep and nightmares, such as anti-anxiety medications.

Psychotherapy

There are many types of psychotherapy that benefit people with PTSD, including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). 

What can I expect during an urgent PTSD appointment?

You can expect professional and attentive care during your PTSD appointment at Sunshine Mental Wellness Associates Inc. The psychiatry practice offers thorough trauma-informed care for people with PTSD.

If you’re struggling with your symptoms, the team provides therapy and medications to help you cope.

With telemedicine appointments at Sunshine Mental Wellness Associates Inc., you can get the care you need from the comfort of your home.

To schedule an appointment, contact Sunshine Mental Wellness Associates Inc. by phone or online today.