PTSD Treatment
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by flashbacks, severe anxiety, and nightmares associated with a terrifying or traumatic event. PTSD might occur after being in military combat or experiencing a natural disaster, automobile accident, domestic violence, or abusive situation.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
Common signs and symptoms of PTSD include:
- Recurrent, distressing memories
- Flashbacks, nightmares, or problems sleeping
- Severe emotional distress
- Avoiding triggers associated with traumatic events
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Relationship problems
- Feeling socially isolated
- Lack of interest in favorite activities
- Being easily startled or frightened
- Alcohol or drug misuse
- Always being on guard for danger
- Irritability or angry outbursts
If PTSD symptoms negatively affect your job, school, interpersonal relationships, or overall quality of life, see the Wholesome Psychiatry team for relief.
What are PTSD risk factors?
Past traumatic life events are the primary cause of PTSD. Your risk of developing the condition increases with long-lasting or intense trauma, having a high-stress job, or struggling with anxiety and depression. Having a family history of mental health disorders, substance misuse, and a lack of a strong social support network can also contribute to PTSD.
How does my provider diagnose PTSD?
To diagnose PTSD and develop a solution, your Wholesome Psychiatry specialist reviews your medical history, asks about symptoms and past traumatic life events, and completes comprehensive psychiatric assessment. Your provider work with you to personalize an effective PTSD treatment plan.
What are the common PTSD treatment options?
The provider at Wholesome Psychiatry might recommend a combination of the following PTSD treatments:
Lifestyle changes
Leading a healthy lifestyle optimizes PTSD treatment. Get plenty of sleep, reduce stress, eat healthy foods, get regular exercise, and do not smoke, drink alcohol, or use recreational drugs.
Medications and Psychotherapy
Your Wholesome Psychiatry provider can work with you to develop an effective medication regimen that reduces PTSD symptoms and help you lead successful and productive life. With addition of cognitive-behavioral therapy or talk therapy, your provider will help you change thinking patterns and beliefs about past traumatic situations. They might pair cognitive therapy with exposure therapy to optimize your results.