Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD
PTSD can occur in anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event including but not limited to natural disasters, terrorism, war/combat, assault, and/or abuse. PTSD can affect people of any age, nationality, race, and culture – you are not alone. Although women are twice as likely as men to experience PTSD, nearly 1 in 10 people will experience it during their lifetime according to the American Psychiatric Association.
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It is not uncommon to experience PTSD-related symptoms in the days following a traumatic event. However, if these symptoms persist for more than a month, it becomes a disorder that should be treated by a professional. Common symptoms of PTSD can include:
- Intrusive thoughts including flashbacks and/or dreams
- Active avoidance of triggering reminders including people, places, people and activities
- Negative thoughts and feelings including but not limited to feeling worthless, afraid, ashamed, and/or suicidal
- Irritability and enhanced negative feelings of arousal like anger, recklessness, and lack of concentration
It’s important to know that there is no time limit on PTSD and a person can experience PTSD years after a traumatic event. People most commonly experience PTSD in the three months following an event, though.
PTSD can also occur with other challenges including depression and substance abuse, so if you or a loved one is exhibiting depressive behaviors or increased substance use, it could be because he or she is experiencing PTSD.
Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, but everyone is worthy of treatment. There are many forms of effective treatment and PTSD is a mental health challenge that, with treatment, can be short-lived and overcome.
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“When you’re depressed you don’t control your thoughts. Your thoughts control you. I wish people would understand this.”
Therapy for All
Get access to confidential therapy with a licensed clinician via app and web. Use code “myparachute” to get $100 off your first month.