Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after you experience or witness a frightening or highly stressful event. It’s not just about feeling upset or scared for a short time; PTSD can last for months or even years. It’s important to remember that PTSD isn’t a sign of weakness—it can happen to anyone.

Understanding the signs of PTSD and seeking the right treatment can be crucial to your healing process. If you have PTSD, you might feel like you’re stuck in the traumatic event, as if it’s happening all over again. This can cause intense emotional and physical reactions.

Signs of PTSD

1. Flashbacks and Nightmares:
If you have PTSD, you might experience flashbacks, which make you feel like you’re reliving the traumatic event—even when you’re awake. Nightmares about the event are also common.

2. Avoidance:
You might find yourself avoiding places, people, or activities that remind you of the traumatic experience. For example, you could stay away from a specific location or avoid talking about what happened.

3. Feeling Numb or Detached:
You may feel disconnected from others, even from those you love. You might feel emotionally numb or like you don’t care about things you once enjoyed or valued.

4. Hypervigilance:
You might feel constantly on edge or overly alert, as though danger is always around the corner. This can make it hard for you to relax or get a good night’s sleep.

5. Mood Swings:
It’s common to experience extreme mood swings if you have PTSD. You might feel angry, sad, or guilty—sometimes without knowing exactly why.

Causes of PTSD

PTSD can develop after experiencing a variety of traumatic events. Some common causes include:

• Combat or war-related experiences (especially in military veterans)
• Natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes
• Car accidents
• Physical or sexual abuse
• Witnessing violence or a traumatic event

It’s important to note that everyone reacts to trauma differently. While some people may develop PTSD after a traumatic event, others may not. PTSD is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation, and it doesn’t make you ‘weak’ or ‘flawed’.

How PTSD is Treated

The good news is that PTSD is treatable. With the right help, you can recover. Treatment often involves a combination of therapy, medication, and support from those around you. Here are some of the most common treatment options:

1. Therapy:
Therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat PTSD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often used to help you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and actions. For PTSD, therapists may use a specific form called Trauma-Focused CBT, which allows you to safely confront your memories in a controlled environment. Another therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) helps you process traumatic memories.

2. Medications:
Doctors may prescribe medications to help alleviate symptoms like anxiety or depression. These medications can help you feel more balanced and enable you to focus on your therapy.

3. Support Groups:
Connecting with others who understand your experience can be incredibly helpful. Support groups allow you to share your struggles, gain advice, and feel understood.

4. Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes:
Taking care of your body and mind can make a big difference in managing PTSD symptoms. Regular exercise, good sleep, and a healthy diet can all contribute to your well-being. Learning relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, can also reduce anxiety.

When to Seek Help

If you’re noticing signs of PTSD in yourself or someone you care about, it’s important to reach out for help. Speaking with a doctor, therapist, or counselor is a good first step. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of recovery.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. PTSD is a serious condition, but with the right support and treatment, you can heal and lead a full, happy life.

At times, PTSD can be a mental crisis. Contact our Crisis Center at +1-303-425-0300 or visit the center located at 4643 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033.

To get started on your PTSD treatment, request an appointment with Jefferson Center below: