Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It is characterised by a range of distressing and persistent symptoms that can significantly affect a person's daily life, well-being, and overall mental health. A comprehensive report based on the World Mental Health (WMH) Surveys in 2016, found that 70% of the populations in the countries studied reported exposure to a traumatic event. The symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder can be divided into three main categories: hyperarousal, intrusion, and constriction.
Hyperarousal- symptoms in post-traumatic stress disorder encompass heightened states of physiological and psychological alertness, such as irritability, difficulty with concentration, sleep disturbances, an exaggerated startle response, hypervigilance, and agitation.These symptoms collectively create a constant state of alertness and emotional distress, which significantly impacts an individual's daily functioning.
Intrusion- symptoms in post-traumatic stress disorder involve the involuntary and distressing re-experiencing of traumatic events, often through distressing and vivid flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts. These symptoms can be overwhelming, causing individuals to feel as though they are reliving the traumatic event, leading to heightened emotional and physiological distress.
Constriction- symptoms in post-traumatic stress disorder involve a deliberate effort to distance oneself from reminders of the traumatic event and to suppress associated thoughts and feelings. Individuals may experience emotional numbing and a reduced range of feelings or emotions. This is the stage most commonly associated with self-isolation, even though this can happen at any given time throughout the cycle.
If you believe you may have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, it's important to take proactive steps to address your condition and seek help. Here's a guide on what to do if you think you have PTSD:
1. Seek Professional Help:
The first and most crucial step is to consult with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or therapist, who specializes in trauma and PTSD. A trained mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
2. Engage in Therapy:
Participate in therapy sessions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), or exposure therapy. These therapeutic approaches can help you manage symptoms, reframe negative thought patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
3. Practice Self-Care:
Implement self-care strategies, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. Understand that recovery from PTSD is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and maintain a commitment to your treatment plan.
4. Join a Support Group:
Consider joining a support group for individuals with PTSD. Support groups provide a sense of community, understanding, and validation. They can be a valuable source of emotional support, insights, and coping strategies from others who have faced similar challenges.
PTSD can develop after a wide variety of traumatic experiences, including combat exposure, sexual assault, natural disasters, car accidents, or any event where a person's life or physical integrity is threatened. The risk of developing PTSD after a traumatic event varies by trauma. While some people experience symptoms of PTSD immediately after a traumatic event, for others, symptoms may not appear until months or even years later, a phenomenon known as delayed onset. Treatment for PTSD typically involves psychotherapy, support groups/forums, and professional guidance. Healing often includes the acceptance and integration of the traumatic experience into one's life story. The process is not always linear but with proper treatment and support, many individuals with PTSD can experience significant improvements in their well-being.
