Trauma and PTSD Therapy
Have you been in a crisis? If you have experienced trauma and are wondering about the benefits of therapy, there is much to learn. Not just for those who have experienced traumatic events, therapeutic intervention is beneficial for PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
What Is a Traumatic Event?
Severe psychological distress is the result of an event that was life-threatening or one that is considered terrible. Emotional disturbances can follow and can show up as symptoms such as:
- Diminished sense of self-worth
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Survivor’s guilt
- Problems with sleep
- Emotional disturbances in relationships
Strong feelings may not cease on their own. Sometimes trauma can be soothed with coping mechanisms, such as exercise, sleep, self-care, avoidance of drugs and alcohol, time spent with loved ones and other positive means.
When feelings of helplessness or vulnerability persist as well as the symptoms of fear, shame and guilt, it may be time to consider therapy and the help of a professional.
What is PTSD?
Experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as a terrorist event, natural disaster, combat, rape or a serious accident, can have long-lasting effects. Formerly known as “shell shock” or “battle fatigue” after World War I and World War II, the term applies to many others besides veterans. One out of 11 people will be diagnosed with PTSD during their lifetime.
Disturbing thoughts and flashbacks as well as feelings about the event may persist long after the reality has happened. Sadness, guilt and detachment as well as anger and nightmares may be part of the world of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The person does not event need to have been exposed directly to the event, such as police or family services members who hear repeated about the terrible details of child abuse cases. Even someone who learns about the violent death of a family member can also experience symptoms.
Some of the symptoms of this disorder include:
- Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
- Avoidance of people and places that bring distressing memories
- Distrust of others; no longer enjoying previous activities
- Irritable outbursts and reckless behavior
When left untreated, depression, abuse of substances, memory problems and other mental health problems can appear. Sometimes symptoms can disappear on their own over time. Family, friends and others have also helped the person experiencing this trauma. However, if Post Traumatic Stress Disorder continues, it is time for professional therapy through treatment.
A type of treatment called CBT, cognitive behavior therapies, has been shown to be very effective with this disorder. Traditional therapeutic interventions, along with therapies centering on art, music, expression and nutrition have also helped people with this issue to reach recovery and move beyond memories of the disturbing event. Groups that are process-based have also been effective, as the person relates to those with similar challenges; they can teach about managing stress and relapse prevention as well as taking medications if needed.
It may be an important time to seek professional therapeutic help, if symptoms of exposure to traumatic events continue to occur and have not abated.