What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that people may develop after a traumatic event or series of events. It’s common among individuals who have served or are serving in the military. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, our trauma therapists help those with PTSD and their loved ones learn how to live with and manage the condition. Our patients will learn their triggers and how to manage them. Through trauma therapy and other solutions, you can start to heal.
How Is PTSD Treated?
There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder. Medications, such as antidepressants, can help soothe symptoms, and many mainstream facilities recommend talk therapy. The first step to treatment is understanding triggers and helping to minimize and cope with them. Our team's recommended PTSD treatment methods may include medication, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), ketamine therapy, or a combination of both. These methods are widely beneficial and safely and adequately reduce symptoms in most patients. No matter which treatment method you choose, we are here to help you.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of PTSD?
Anyone can develop post-traumatic stress disorder. It can develop immediately after a traumatic event or may not present until years later. Common causes of PTSD include:
- Car accident
- Death of a loved one
- Domestic abuse
- Natural disaster
- Military combat
Symptoms of PTSD can vary and may come and go over time. Common symptoms include:
- Avoiding places or events that bring back memories or feelings of the traumatic event
- Getting startled easily
- Difficulty sleeping
- Angry outbursts
- Trouble remembering the event
- Flashbacks or bad dreams of the event
Serenity Mental Health Centers Reviews
My psychiatrist is named Dr. Colvin and he is an excellent person to count on for aid with mental health. He has prescribed medicine for me that has worked wonders in my life, and he continues to meet my concerns by providing more medication when needed. Alongside him, the staff is extremely flexible with their availability, and whenever I’ve needed to change a date on the calendar for appointments, they have been swift and generous to meet those needs as well. I’d recommend Serenity to anyone that is struggling to battle the demons in their head; they have changed my life and I know they will do the same for you as well.
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Dr. Ruiloba is wonderful. He always listens to what I need and makes adjustments accordingly. The Serenity office centers are also wonderful and always a pleasure to visit, so I am very thankful for all of the hardwork and effort that the entire team puts into making my visits enjoyable and running smoothly.
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How Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosed?
PTSD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation by one of our board-certified psychiatrists. The diagnostic process typically involves a clinical interview to discuss symptoms, history, and experiences related to the traumatic event. We may use standardized self-report questionnaires to assess the severity and frequency of symptoms and evaluate any co-occurring mental health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is post-traumatic stress disorder?
PTSD is relatively common, affecting millions of people worldwide. In the United States alone, it's estimated that about 6-9 percent of the population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. The prevalence can vary significantly among different groups, particularly among veterans and first responders, where rates can be notably higher due to their exposure to traumatic events. The disorder also affects civilians who have gone through severe traumas such as assaults, disasters, accidents, or the sudden death of a loved one. Awareness and understanding of PTSD have grown, leading to better access to treatments and support for those affected.
Do children react to PTSD differently than adults?
Yes, children often respond to PTSD differently than adults, with reactions varying by age and developmental stage. Younger children might show stress through changes in behavior, such as increased clinginess or new fears, while school-aged children may experience disruptions in schoolwork or sleep patterns. Adolescents might engage in risky behaviors or withdraw socially. Across all ages, symptoms can include nightmares and a heightened startle response. Recognizing these differences is crucial for providing age-appropriate support and interventions.
Why do some people get PTSD after a traumatic experience and not others?
The development of PTSD after a traumatic experience is influenced by a combination of individual, environmental, and social factors. People with a history of mental health issues or previous traumas are more susceptible, and genetic predispositions also play a role. The severity and duration of the trauma, along with the quality of immediate support and ongoing stress, significantly impact the likelihood of developing PTSD. Additionally, personal perceptions of the trauma, such as feelings of helplessness or horror, can determine susceptibility. Strong social support networks generally improve outcomes, while a lack of support increases risk.
Take Back Control
Serenity Mental Health Centers is here to help those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Our team offers a range of treatment methods, from prescription medications to transcranial magnetic stimulation and more. Having PTSD can be scary for the individual and their family, but with the help of our professionals, you don't have to go through it alone. We are here to help guide you and you family through the diagnosis, treatment, and management of PTSD.
