PTSD

### What Is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It’s more than just a reaction to stress—it’s the body and mind’s prolonged struggle to return to a sense of safety after danger has passed.

PTSD affects people from all walks of life, including survivors of abuse, war veterans, first responders, accident survivors, and anyone who has gone through a deeply distressing experience.

### **DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for PTSD**

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), PTSD is diagnosed based on the following criteria, present for more than one month:

#### 1. Exposure to Trauma**

* Direct experience of a traumatic event

* Witnessing the event as it occurred to others

* Learning that the traumatic event happened to a close family member or friend

* Repeated or extreme exposure to traumatic details (e.g., first responders)

#### 2. Intrusion Symptoms (At least one required)**

* Intrusive thoughts or memories

* Nightmares related to the trauma

* Flashbacks

* Emotional distress or physical reactions to trauma-related cues

#### 3. Avoidance (At least one required)**

* Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations about the trauma

* Avoiding places, people, or activities that are reminders of the event

#### 4. Negative Changes in Thoughts and Mood (At least two required)**

* Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world ("I am bad," "No one can be trusted")

* Distorted blame of self or others

* Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, anger, guilt, shame)

* Diminished interest in activities

* Feeling detached or estranged from others

#### 5. Alterations in Arousal and Reactivity (At least two required)**

* Irritability or angry outbursts

* Reckless or self-destructive behavior

* Hypervigilance

* Exaggerated startle response

* Difficulty concentrating

* Sleep disturbances

### **Therapy and Treatment Options for PTSD**

Treatment can help individuals process the trauma, reduce symptoms, and reclaim their lives. The most effective approaches are evidence-based and often include:

1. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Especially Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) helps individuals reframe unhelpful beliefs about the trauma.

Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Gradual exposure to trauma memories in a safe setting to reduce fear and avoidance.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Focuses on challenging and modifying unhelpful trauma-related beliefs.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to process trauma memories.

2. Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM)

A newer protocol based on memory reconsolidation science, RTM is a short-term, non-invasive therapy that helps “re-code” traumatic memories without requiring the person to fully relive or discuss the trauma in detail. It’s especially effective for single-incident trauma and is well-tolerated by those who find traditional exposure therapies distressing.

3. Group Therapy

Sharing experiences with others who understand trauma can reduce shame and isolation. Group therapy can focus on emotional regulation, grounding techniques, and building resilience.

4. Medication

Certain medications can help manage PTSD symptoms:

SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, paroxetine): Often prescribed to ease depression and anxiety

Prazosin: Sometimes used to reduce nightmares

Mood stabilizers or anti-anxiety medications in specific cases

5. Holistic and Complementary Approaches

Mindfulness and meditation: Helps reduce hyperarousal and anxiety

Yoga and body-based therapies: Address the physical manifestations of trauma

Art or music therapy: Offers nonverbal avenues to process trauma

### **There Is Hope After Trauma**

Healing from PTSD is not about forgetting—it’s about reclaiming power over your life and emotions. Whether you're just beginning to explore your symptoms or you've been carrying trauma for years, treatment can help you move forward.

### **Let Us Support You**

If you or someone you care about is struggling with PTSD, you are not alone. Reach out to our team today to begin your healing journey.