Find PTSD Support Groups near you

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FAQs:

What is PTSD?

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event or series of traumatic events. The individual often experiences the event or events as emotionally or physically harmful or life-threatening. Examples include, but are not limited to, abuse (physical, sexual, emotional), natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat exposure, intimate partner violence, and medical illness. However, most individuals who experience traumas do not go on to develop PTSD.

How is PTSD Diagnosed?

A ptsd specialist near me who has experience helping people with mental illnesses can diagnose PTSD. The provider will do a mental health screening and may also do a physical exam. To get a PTSD diagnosis, you must have all of these symptoms for at least one month:

1. At least one re-experiencing symptom

2. At least one avoidance symptom

3. At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms

4. At least two cognition and mood symptoms

How Common is PTSD?

PTSD can occur in anyone of any ethnicity, nationality, or culture, and at any age. The prevalence of PTSD in the U.S. is estimated to be approximately 4% of U.S. adults and 8% of U.S. adolescents aged 13-18. The lifetime prevalence in the U.S. is estimated to be 6%.

Is PTSD a Mental Illness?

PTSD is a diagnosable mental illness. It’s classified as a trauma- and stressor-related disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) – the official guidebook used by mental health professionals to diagnose psychiatric illnesses. PTSD is characterized by a range of emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s ability to function in daily life.

How Long Does PTSD Last?

The length of time that post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is experienced varies significantly depending on the person, the type of trauma experienced, and whether effective treatment is received. Some may recover within six months, whereas for others it can become a chronic condition, lasting a lifetime. PTSD is an intensely personal experience, and, as with most mental illnesses, no two cases are the same.

PTSD symptoms usually present soon after a traumatic event is experienced or witnessed, and for most, these symptoms will lessen and disappear with time. However, if they remain untreated, they can last for years or potentially for the remainder of the individual’s life. Those who experience PTSD symptoms over a long period may find that they aren’t consistent in their severity, but that symptoms come and go over time and are triggered by stress or other intense emotions.

Is PTSD a Disability?

Both the SSA and VA consider PTSD a disability in some cases. If PTSD meets certain criteria, such as being diagnosed by a doctor and impairing or limiting areas of life, it may qualify a person for disability benefits. PTSD is also covered under the ADA. This means it is considered a disability, and people cannot be discriminated against due to the condition. If a person has PTSD and it is interfering with their day-to-day life, they can contact the SSA to file a claim for disability benefits. If they are a veteran of the armed forces, they can also contact the VA about disability benefits.

How Does PTSD Affect the Brain?

PTSD doesn't stop at emotional distress — it affects brain function and overall health. Chronic stress alters the brain's structure and function, impairing memory, attention, and decision-making. PTSD can cause hypersensitivity to threats, manifesting as heightened anxiety, irritability, and aggression. Sufferers may also experience intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event, leading to significant distress and disruption of daily life. The physical health impacts are equally serious, with PTSD being associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and other health problems.

Is PTSD an Anxiety Disorder?

No. Psychiatrists now put it in the category of trauma- and stressor-related disorders. It was classified as an anxiety disorder until 2013. The change recognizes the fact that it has a unique and complicated mix of effects on your behavior and personality.

Who is More Likely to Develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

You can develop PTSD at any age. Many risk factors play a part in whether you will develop PTSD. They include:

- Your sex; women are more likely to develop PTSD

- Having had trauma in childhood

- Feeling horror, helplessness, or extreme fear

- Going through a traumatic event that lasts a long time

- Having little or no social support after the event

- Dealing with extra stress after the event, such as loss of a loved one, pain and injury, or loss of a job or home

- Having a history of mental illness or substance use

Is PTSD Curable?

While PTSD may not be curable in the traditional sense, effective treatments can help manage and reduce symptoms significantly. Many individuals experience substantial improvement through therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). These treatments empower individuals to cope with their trauma, regain a sense of control, and lead fulfilling lives.

Neglecting to treat PTSD can lead to a range of detrimental outcomes. Individuals may experience worsening symptoms, which can exacerbate anxiety and depression. Untreated PTSD can also result in difficulties in personal relationships, increased substance abuse, and a higher risk of developing additional mental health conditions. Chronic stress associated with PTSD can also contribute to physical health problems, including cardiovascular issues and autoimmune disorders. Overall, untreated PTSD can severely diminish quality of life.

Can PTSD be Prevented?

You can’t necessarily prevent a traumatic event. But some studies show that certain steps may help you prevent PTSD afterward. These are called “protective factors” and include:

1. Seeking support from others after the event, such as friends and family. This helps establish a sense of security.

2. Joining a support group after a traumatic event.

3. Learning to feel positive about your actions in the face of danger.

4. Having a healthy coping strategy after the traumatic event.

5. Being able to act and respond effectively despite feeling fear.

6. Helping other people, especially if it’s a traumatic event that affected several people, like a natural disaster.

Is PTSD Genetic?

According to a wide pool of research, several factors can increase the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including both genetic and hereditary factors. Genetic conditions can develop when there are changes present in your genes. A 2016 study suggests that variations in certain genes, such as those related to serotonin or the stress response, can make a person more susceptible to developing PTSD and other trauma-related disorders. Hereditary conditions can develop when a parent genetically passes a condition down to their child. A 2014 review of studies suggests that genetic risk factors make up roughly 30% to 40% of the heritability, or inherited risk, of developing the condition.

Types of PTSD

Two conditions are closely related to PTSD:

1. Acute stress disorder: This is a short-term mental health condition that can occur within the first month after experiencing a traumatic event. Symptoms lasting longer than four weeks may meet the criteria for PTSD.

2. Complex PTSD (CPTSD): This is a mental health condition that can develop if you experience chronic (long-term) trauma. Examples of chronic trauma include long-term child physical or sexual abuse, long-term domestic violence, and war. People with CPTSD typically have PTSD symptoms in addition to extensive issues with emotion regulation, sense of self, and relationships.

What are the 5 Stages of PTSD?

There are five stages of PTSD, and not every stage is experienced equally by all who develop PTSD:

1. Impact or Emergency Stage – This is the period immediately after the traumatic event. The individual will likely be struggling to process what they have seen or experienced.

2. Denial or Numbing Stage – This stage may not be experienced by everyone who develops PTSD. Those who do go through it will attempt to protect or numb themselves by denying that the traumatic event occurred. Denial is a common protective reaction to overwhelming, difficult emotions. It is the mind’s way of defending itself from any further pain. Professional treatment can help individuals suffering from PTSD confront their trauma to move forward and begin to heal.

3. Rescue Phase, also known as Intrusive or Repetitive Stage. During this stage, the individual comes to terms with their trauma. They acknowledge what has happened to them and are actively dealing with the shock and distress. This can often be the most destructive stage as the individual deals with intense emotional distress, such as confusion, despair, or hopelessness.

4. Short Term Recovery or Intermediate Stage –In this stage, the individual with PTSD starts to adjust back to ‘normal’ life after the initial survival instincts have been assuaged. It may also include a new level of acceptance and understanding of the trauma they experienced and how it affects their lives. This is likely accompanied by a more hopeful outlook for the future and includes some longer-term plans for PTSD recovery. As well as the more positive emotions, there will likely be small setbacks and shifts back to the rescue stage, but with compassionate treatment can be overcome.

5. Long-term Reconstruction or Recovery Stage – When the individual with PTSD starts to implement a long-term recovery plan, they have entered the recovery stage. Coping mechanisms are devised and started to be used to address PTSD symptoms, and these are integrated into daily life. The fifth and final stage may take a long time to implement fully, and setbacks are common, especially when the individual goes through times of stress. However, with coping mechanisms and skills learnt through the PTSD treatment programmes, they can be managed.

What are the 17 Symptoms of PTSD?

Experiencing trauma can lead to symptoms that hinder our ability to embrace warmth and affection from others, resulting in significant negative alterations in self-perception and identity, as well as instilling fears that often restrict our enjoyment of pleasurable activities. Here are the 17 symptoms of PTSD encompass (not in particular order):

1. Agitation

Agitation encompasses feelings of anxious or nervous excitement, often varying in intensity. Ranging from mild restlessness to pronounced unease or tension, agitation may manifest as fidgetiness or an inability to remain still, potentially escalating to irritability or outbursts of anger, especially in the absence of effective treatment for trauma.

2. Nervousness and anxiety

While it is natural to experience apprehension in anticipation of stressful situations, persistent and overwhelming feelings of nervousness and anxiety following trauma exposure can disrupt daily life. Physical manifestations of anxiety, such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, or fatigue, are common in such instances.

3. Problems with concentration or thinking

Trauma-induced activation of the body's fight-or-flight response often leads to a persistent state of heightened alertness, making it challenging to concentrate or maintain clear thinking.

4. Problems with memory

The fight-or-flight response triggered by trauma exposure can result in nerve growth around the amygdala, impacting the brain's ability to process stress and memory. Memory loss may also occur as a defence mechanism.

5. Headaches

As we grapple with symptoms of trauma, our fight-or-flight response may persistently remain activated, releasing hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) that can influence the nervous system and potentially lead to headaches. While headaches can stem from various causes, they may serve as a notable symptom of PTSD, especially when experienced alongside other related symptoms.

6. Depression and crying spells

Depression can profoundly influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviour, leading to feelings of sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, and changes in appetite. Additionally, depression may exacerbate fatigue and disrupt sleep patterns, contributing to increased vulnerability and the potential emergence of suicidal ideation.

7. Suicidal thoughts or attempts

The overwhelming nature of PTSD symptoms can sometimes lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially when coupled with depression, panic attacks, anxiety, or substance abuse. Individuals grappling with trauma symptoms face an increased risk of suicide, underscoring the importance of seeking timely support and intervention.

8. Mood swings

Trauma-induced triggers, panic attacks, and bouts of irritability can precipitate abrupt mood fluctuations. While distinct from bipolar disorder, these mood swings may sometimes resemble symptoms of bipolar disorder and require a thorough diagnostic evaluation by a qualified mental health professional.

9. Obsessive-compulsive tendencies

Although distinct from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma exposure may manifest in behaviours resembling OCD, such as repetitive actions or rituals aimed at mitigating hypervigilance or intrusive thoughts. OCD and those diagnosed with trauma symptoms can both suffer from intrusive, disturbing thoughts. When we experience both conditions, we often feel a constant impending sense of doom or dread. This can be a sign of PTSD, especially if you previously did not have any sort of OCD before experiencing trauma.

10. Panic episodes

Intense fear, often overwhelming in its sudden onset, characterises panic episodes following trauma exposure. These episodes may occur unpredictably or in response to trauma-related triggers, accompanied by physical symptoms such as chest pain, trembling, or rapid heart rate.

11. Paranoia

Paranoia, marked by an unwavering belief in one's vulnerability and pervasive suspicion of others' intentions, can emerge as a protective mechanism in response to traumatic or highly stressful events.

12. Shakiness

Shakiness, linked to agitation, nervousness, and anxiety, may manifest as tremors or unsteadiness following trauma exposure.

13. Substance abuse

To cope with distressing experiences, individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol as an escape mechanism from the intrusive thoughts from the trauma experienced. It can temporarily reduce or numb these feelings.

14. Flashbacks

Flashbacks entail vivid re-experiencing of past traumatic events or stressors, often accompanied by an overwhelming sense of fear or helplessness. These distressing episodes may manifest as visual, auditory, or sensory recollections of the trauma, sometimes triggered by reminders of the past. The flashbacks may vary in duration, and they can be accompanied by other physical symptoms like increased heart rate and sweating.

15. Hypervigilance

Hypervigilance reflects a heightened state of alertness and sensitivity to potential threats, stemming from trauma-induced adaptations aimed at self-protection. This is a very common symptom experienced and reported on by most of our clients who have PTSD presentations. Patients are often scanning their surroundings for a bad thing to happen and may be super edgy and jumpy. They will typically overreact to stimuli happening around them.

16. Nightmares

Another very common symptom that we observe in our clients. Trauma-related nightmares can manifest as vivid and distressing dreams, often reenacting traumatic events and contributing to sleep disturbances and daytime fatigue. It can also lead to an overwhelming emotion of anxiety, anger, or sadness upon their waking.

17. Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disturbances, including difficulties falling or staying asleep, frequent awakenings, or nightmares, may result from intrusive memories or heightened arousal following trauma exposure. Prolonged sleep deprivation can exacerbate other PTSD symptoms and impact overall well-being.

Symptoms of PTSD in Children

Children may have symptoms like those above or other symptoms. As children get older, their symptoms are more like those of adults. Here are some examples of PTSD symptoms in children and teens:

1. Children under 6 may get upset if their parents are not close by, have trouble sleeping, or act out the trauma in their play.

2. Children ages 7 to 11 may also act out the trauma through play, drawings, or stories. Some have nightmares or become more irritable or aggressive. They may also want to avoid school or have trouble with schoolwork or friends.

3. Children ages 12 to 18 have symptoms more similar to adults: depression, anxiety, withdrawal, or reckless behavior like substance abuse or running away.

Causes of PTSD

You can develop post-traumatic stress disorder when you go through, see, or learn about an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual assault. Healthcare professionals aren't sure why some people get PTSD. As with most mental health problems, a mix of factors probably causes it, including:

1. Extremely stressful experiences, as well as the amount and severity of trauma you've gone through in your life.

2. Inherited mental health risks, such as a family history of anxiety and depression.

3. Inherited features of your personality — often called your temperament.

4. The way your brain regulates the chemicals and hormones your body releases in response to stress.

Risk Factors of PTSD

People of all ages can have post-traumatic stress disorder. But you may be more likely to develop PTSD after a traumatic event if you:

1. Have severe or long-lasting traumatic experiences.

2. Were physically injured during the traumatic event.

3. Have been exposed to other trauma earlier in life, such as childhood abuse.

4. Have a job that exposes you to traumatic events, such as being in the military or being a first responder.

5. Have other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.

6. Drink too much or misuse drugs.

7. Do not have a good support system of family and friends.

8. Have blood relatives with mental health problems, including PTSD or depression.

How to Treat PTSD

Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is the main PTSD treatment, especially forms of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy takes place with a trained, licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide support, education and guidance to you and/or your loved ones to help you function better and increase your well-being.

A. Specific forms of CBT for PTSD include:

1. Cognitive processing therapy: This therapy was designed specifically to treat PTSD. It focuses on changing painful negative emotions (like shame and guilt) and beliefs due to the trauma. It also helps you confront distressing memories and emotions.

2. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: This method involves moving your eyes a specific way while you process traumatic memories. EMDR’s goal is to help you heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. Compared to other therapy methods, EMDR is relatively new. But dozens of clinical trials show this technique is effective and can help a person faster than many other methods.

3. Group therapy: This type of therapy encourages survivors of similar traumatic events to share their experiences and feelings in a comfortable and nonjudgmental setting. Family therapy may also help, as the challenges of PTSD can affect the entire family.

4. Prolonged exposure therapy: This therapy uses repeated, detailed imagining of the trauma or progressive exposures to symptom triggers in a safe, controlled way. This helps you face and gain control of fear and learn to cope.

5. Trauma-focused CBT: This therapy involves learning about how your body responds to trauma and stress. You’ll also identify and reframe problematic thinking patterns and learn symptom management skills. It involves exposure therapy, as well.

B. PTSD Medication

Currently, there are no medications for ptsd approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat PTSD. However, healthcare providers may prescribe certain medications to help certain PTSD symptoms, such as:

1. Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

2. Anti-anxiety medications.

How to Cope with PTSD

If a traumatic event causes stress and other problems that affect your life, see your healthcare professional or mental health professional. You can also take these actions as you continue with treatment for PTSD:

1. Follow your treatment plan. Although it may take a while to feel the benefits of therapy or medicines, treatment can be effective. Most people recover. Remind yourself that it takes time. 

Following your treatment plan and routinely reaching out to your mental health professional will help move you forward.

2. Learn about PTSD. This knowledge can help you understand what you're feeling, and then you can build coping strategies to respond effectively.

3. Take care of yourself. Get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, exercise, and take time to relax. Try to reduce or not use caffeine and nicotine, which can worsen anxiety.

4. Don't self-medicate. Turning to alcohol or drugs to numb your feelings isn't healthy, even though it may be a tempting way to cope. It can lead to more problems, hinder effective treatments, and prevent real healing.

5. Break the cycle. When you feel anxious, take a brisk walk or work on a hobby to refocus.

6. Stay connected. Spend time with supportive and caring people — family, friends, faith leaders, or others. You don't have to talk about what happened. Just sharing time with loved ones can offer healing and comfort.

7. Consider a support group. Ask your mental health professional for help finding a support group, or contact veterans' organizations or your community's social services system. Or look for local support groups in an online directory.

How to Help Someone with PTSD

Hearing about a trauma that led to your loved one's PTSD may be painful for you and even cause you to relive hard events. You may find yourself avoiding your loved one's attempts to talk about the trauma or feeling hopeless that your loved one will get better. At the same time, you may feel guilty that you can't fix your loved one or speed up the healing process.

Remember that you can't change someone. But you can:

1. Learn about PTSD. This can help you know what your loved one is going through.

2. Be aware that PTSD includes avoiding and withdrawing from others. If your loved one doesn't want your help, allow space and let your loved one know that you're available when the time is right.

3. Offer to go to healthcare appointments. If your loved one is willing, going to appointments can help you learn more about and help with treatment.

4. Be willing to listen. Let your loved one know you're willing to listen, but you understand if this isn't the right time to talk. Try not to force your loved one to talk about a trauma until your loved one is ready.

5. Urge get-togethers. Plan opportunities for activities with family and friends, but respect the person's decision if the time isn't right to participate. Celebrate events.

6. Make your health a priority. Take care of yourself by eating healthy, being physically active, and getting enough rest and sleep. Take time alone or with friends. And take part in activities that help you recharge.

7. Seek help if you need it. If you have a hard time coping, talk with your healthcare professional. You may need to see a therapist who can help you work through your stress.

8. Stay safe. Plan a safe place for yourself and your children if your loved one becomes violent or abusive.

How to Find a PTSD Therapist Near Me

Finding the right therapist for PTSD or C-PTSD can feel overwhelming, so here are some practical advice to guide you through the process:

1. Ask for Recommendations

Start by asking your GP (general practitioner), friends, family, ptsd support groups,  or trusted individuals if they can recommend a therapist. Personal referrals can help you connect with professionals who have been positively reviewed by others.

2. Use Professional Directories

You can search for therapists through professional directories that allow filtering by specialization, such as trauma or PTSD. Look for therapists who mention PTSD or trauma therapy in their bios, and check their qualifications.

3. Consider Therapy Format

Decide if you prefer in-person therapy or remote sessions via phone or video. Many therapists now offer online services, which expand your options and may help if travel is a barrier.

4. Read Bios and Website Info

Therapists often list their approaches (e.g., EMDR, CBT) on their websites or profiles. Experts suggest looking for a therapist trained in evidence-based trauma treatments and one who resonates with your personal preferences and needs.

5. Trust Your Instincts

Your comfort with a therapist is essential. It’s perfectly okay to change therapists if you don’t feel a good connection after a session or two. Therapy is a personal journey, and finding the right fit may take time.

6. Ask Questions

When contacting a therapist, ask about their experience with PTSD, their therapeutic methods, and practical matters like fees and session availability. This helps ensure transparency and a good match.

 

Sources:

Sofia Health

Psychiatry

Mayo Clinic

VA

Cleveland Clinic

Stella Centre

UCLA Medschool

Medical News Today

WebMD

Mental Health

PCRF

Marucanna

Healthline

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.