Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the name psychologists use to describe the cluster of symptoms that can appear in a person after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
Symptoms of PTSD can vary, depending on how severe they are. They can be present for a few days, a month, or even years after the event. While many people develop PTSD symptoms soon after the trauma, others may have them for months or even years. If you’re worried that you might be suffering from PTSD, you should consult a mental healthcare provider for further guidance. Some symptoms of PTSD may be associated with other mental and physical conditions.
When Do Symptoms of PTSD Appear?
The symptoms of PTSD usually begin within three months after the traumatic event. These symptoms must be distressing and cause difficulties with work and relationships, and they cannot be caused by a substance or other health condition. Symptoms of PTSD can often be confused with other mental illnesses or psychological problems, which makes consulting a professional even more important.
What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?
The most common symptom of PTSD is nightmares. This can be part of a larger issue with sleep disruption or appear on its own. People with PTSD have a persistent and unwanted memory of the traumatic event. Their thoughts and physical responses may be intense. For example, they may avoid alleys, or drive only when they feel safe. Other symptoms of PTSD include hypervigilance and excessive anxiety. They may have a more pronounced startle response, or constantly look over their shoulder.
In some cases, individuals may experience auditory hallucinations and paranoid ideation. In these cases, people may notice tinnitus, or hear voices that aren’t there. Some may also experience high levels of guarding and constant suspicion of harm. Some people also report feeling detached or irritable. They may feel numb or detached from reality. Indeed, the variety of symptoms that survivors of trauma experience can be as unpredictable as the traumas that cause it.
How is PTSD Treated?
The first step to recovery is asking for help. While it’s important to seek medical help, it’s also crucial to seek counseling and therapy. The sooner you get treatment, the better, as waiting too long can make symptoms even worse and harder to handle. While there are many ways to treat PTSD, it’s important to get help right away as early as possible to ensure your mental and physical well-being.
By addressing symptoms and developing a treatment plan, you can find the best way to recover. There is no single right way to recover from traumatic experiences, but you can seek help in the right way.
What Do I Do if I Think I Have PTSD?
Once you are concerned that you may have PTSD, you should see a mental health care professional for further assessment. The mental health care professional will ask about your symptoms, including the nature of the trauma. They will also ask about your other problems, like alcohol or drugs. In some cases, your mental health provider may also use a PTSD screen or questionnaire to help you determine if you have PTSD.
You don’t have to suffer, and you are not alone. By finding a support system for yourself, you can be more confident in your abilities. There are many treatment options available for PTSD, and they can reduce or eliminate your troubling symptoms.
Lightfully Behavioral Health
If you are concerned that you or someone you love might be suffering from PTSD, you should contact a mental health professional like the experts at Lightfully Behavioral Health. We provide a thorough variety of behavioral health options, including our Mental Health Treatment Centers in Los Angeles. Our dedication, many years of experience, and our process-based therapy model can help you find your way out of the darkness.
