Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can significantly affect a person’s emotional and psychological well-being following a traumatic event. This blog explores the symptoms, causes, types, and therapies for PTSD and highlights how online counselling and finding the best therapist in India through platforms like TalktoAngel can aid in controlling symptoms including depression, stress, and anxiety.

Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD manifests in various ways, and symptoms can differ from person to person. 

• Intrusive Memories: Individuals with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, or distressing thoughts related to the traumatic event. For example, someone who survived a natural disaster might repeatedly relive the event through vivid dreams or sudden, overwhelming memories.
• Avoidance: People may avoid reminders of the trauma, including specific places, activities, or conversations that bring back memories of the event. Their daily lives may be severely disrupted as a result.
• Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition: PTSD can result in persistent negative thoughts about oneself or others, feelings of guilt or shame, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. This often leads to chronic stress and depression.
• Arousal and Reactivity: Symptoms in this category include heightened alertness, irritability, trouble sleeping, and being easily startled. Individuals may also have difficulty concentrating or experience angry outbursts.

Causes of PTSD

• Combat Exposure: Military personnel who experience combat situations are at risk for PTSD due to the intense and life-threatening nature of their experiences.
• Sexual Assault: Survivors of sexual violence often develop PTSD, which can profoundly impact their mental health and daily functioning.
• Accidents: Serious accidents, such as car crashes or industrial incidents, can trigger PTSD symptoms.
• Natural Disasters: Events like earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes can lead to PTSD, especially when they result in significant loss or trauma.
• Abuse: Both physical and emotional abuse can be traumatic enough to result in PTSD.

 Types of PTSD

PTSD can present in several forms:

• Acute PTSD: Symptoms occur within three months of the traumatic event and last for at least a few weeks. If symptoms persist beyond this period, the diagnosis may change to chronic PTSD.
• Chronic PTSD: This diagnosis is given when symptoms last for more than three months and significantly impact daily life.
• Delayed-Onset PTSD: In some cases, symptoms do not appear until six months or more after the traumatic event, which can complicate the connection between symptoms and the initial trauma.

Therapies for PTSD

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a highly effective treatment for PTSD, helping individuals alter negative thought patterns and behaviors. Specific CBT techniques, like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), are used to address PTSD symptoms.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR helps individuals process traumatic memories through guided eye movements, reducing their emotional intensity and aiding in recovery.
• Medication: Certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help manage symptoms of PTSD, particularly anxiety and depression. Medication is often used alongside therapy for comprehensive treatment.
• Group Therapy: Support groups and group therapy provide a communal space for individuals with PTSD to share their experiences, gain support, and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Self-Care: Incorporating self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation techniques can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.

TalktoAngel: A Resource for Online Counselling

In addition to traditional therapies, online counselling offers a convenient and effective way to seek help. TalktoAngel is an online mental health platform that connects users with licensed mental health professionals, including some of the best therapists in India, through virtual consultations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PTSD is a serious condition that can affect many aspects of life. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and types is crucial for effective treatment and management. Therapies such as CBT, EMDR, and medication, along with online counselling from platforms like TalktoAngel, can offer significant support. Seeking assistance is an essential first step on the road to recovery and enhancing your quality of life, regardless of the issue you're facing—stress, depression, or anxiety.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach &  Ms. Mansi, Counselling Psychologist

References

• Brazier, Y., & Ames, H. (2019, February 6). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Symptoms, treatment, and more. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156285
• Mann, S. K., & Marwaha, R. (2023). Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559129/
• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Mayo Clinic; Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355967