Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. While often associated with military combat, PTSD can affect anyone who has survived abuse, accidents, natural disasters, or other shocking experiences. Many people don't realize they have PTSD, or may feel ashamed to seek help. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward healing.  

Common Signs and Symptoms of PTSD:  

• Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event  

• Flashbacks or nightmares that make you feel like you're reliving the trauma  

• Avoiding places, people,  or activities that remind you of what happened  

• Negative changes in thoughts and mood such as feeling numb or hopeless  

• Being easily startled, feeling tense, or having angry outbursts  

• Trouble sleeping or concentrating  

PTSD symptoms are often triggered by stress or reminders of the trauma. Although distressing, PTSD is treatable. The first line of treatment is regular therapy sessions with a provider who specializes in treating PTSD. Effective treatment modalities include Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,  Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). 

In instances where you may be experiencing recurring disturbing thoughts, rumination, and or physical or emotional dysregulation such as angry outbursts, share these symptoms with your therapist and/or physician as medication may be needed to further manage symptoms. Providers (therapists and physicians) can provide you a referral to see a specialist such as a psychiatrist or nurse practitioner who will determine what medication is best for you.

It is not uncommon to experience co-occurring disorders. The most common co-occurring disorders are anxiety, depression, and substance use. When symptoms are severe, it may be necessary to seek out higher levels of care such as an Intensive Outpatient Program commonly referred to as an IOP. If you are having suicidal thoughts with intent to commit suicide or you have thought of how you would commit suicide, go to your nearest emergency room, hospital, or call 911 to get help immediately. You may also dial 988 to reach the crisis hotline 24/7. Short-term inpatient care followed up with a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) can get you on track to better managing symptoms on your own with the continued support of a mental health therapist (referred to as outpatient care). 

If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, do not hesitate to seek the support of a mental health professional. With the right supports, healing is possible. You don't have to face this alone!