WRITTEN BY: Stephanie Amundson, MA, LPC, CSAC, CCTS-I
Trauma is a complex phenomenon that can have a profound impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a specific type of trauma-related disorder, is characterized by persistent symptoms that develop after exposure to a traumatic event. This blog will explore the definition of trauma and PTSD, examine their effects on individuals, and discuss available treatments. References will be provided for further exploration of the topic.
Defining Trauma:
Trauma refers to an overwhelmingly distressing event or series of events that exceed an individual's capacity to cope and integrate the experience into their psyche. Examples of traumatic events include natural disasters, accidents, combat exposure, physical or sexual abuse, and witnessing violence. Trauma can leave individuals feeling intense fear, helplessness, and horror, impacting their sense of safety and well-being.
Understanding PTSD:
PTSD is a mental health condition that may develop following exposure to a traumatic event. Its core symptoms can be categorized into four clusters: re-experiencing, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal. Re-experiencing symptoms involve distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares. Avoidance symptoms manifest as efforts to avoid reminders of the traumatic event. Negative alterations in cognition and mood include feelings of guilt, detachment, and a diminished interest in activities. Hyperarousal symptoms are characterized by increased irritability, hypervigilance, and exaggerated startle response.
The Impact of Trauma and PTSD:
Trauma and PTSD can have far-reaching consequences on an individual's well-being. They can affect various aspects of life, including physical health, relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Individuals with PTSD may experience difficulties with sleep, concentration, and emotional regulation. They may also struggle with interpersonal relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection from others.
Treatment Options for PTSD:
Effective treatment approaches for PTSD include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another evidence-based therapy that focuses on processing traumatic memories. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Brewin, C. R., et al. (2017). Posttraumatic stress disorder. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 3, 1-22.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2017). Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/product/Treatment-of-Posttraumatic-Stress-Disorder-Pocket-Guide/sma17-4884
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