Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder results from a traumatic, often life-threatening, event. Post-traumatic stress disorder is common among people with eating disorders and those who have served in the military. Post-traumatic stress disorder also may affect those who have witnessed or been affected by natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents or acts of violence, such as rape.

Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder often relive their experience through nightmares or flashbacks. As a result, they have difficulty sleeping and feel emotionally detached.

Although post-traumatic stress disorder is often associated with Vietnam veterans, similar post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were documented in veterans of the Civil War and of even more ancient conflicts.

Post-traumatic stress disorder affects men and women, adults and children, and people at all socioeconomic levels and in all cultural groups. Approximately 5% of men and 10% of women have post-traumatic stress disorder

Medical Impact of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

It is common for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder to suffer from Headaches, gastrointestinal problems, dizziness, chest pain, a weakened immune system and discomfort in various body parts. Other medical complications may result from disorders co-occurring with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder are unable to function well in social or family situations. They frequently have difficulty holding a job, and may have marital problems and find parenting difficult as a result of the post-traumatic stress disorder.

Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder have an increased likelihood of other psychiatric disorders, including drug or alcohol addiction, eating disorders or depression.

Causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder is common among those who have a traumatic experience. Post-traumatic stress disorder occurs often in those who have to deal with abnormal levels of stress, who have been raped or abused, or who grow up in a social setting that makes them feel guilty or ashamed. Genetics is believed to have an impact relating to a chemical imbalance in the brain in individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

People with post-traumatic stress disorder typically have abnormal levels of key hormones that affect how they respond to stress. Thyroid function is enhanced and a chemical imbalance occurs that is the opposite of that found in people with depression.

Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder is treated using psychotherapy and drug therapy. Exposure therapy, in which the patient with post-traumatic stress disorder is repeatedly exposed to a simulated traumatic event in a controlled setting, has been especially effective. Drugs that are also used for anxiety and depression are typically used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder.

Helping Someone Find Treatment For Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

If you suspect you or someone you know suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, do something about it. Seek professional counseling immediately.

For help, contact Walden Behavioral Care at 781-647-6700 or Info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.