What Is it?
On social media, people use the term PTSD so frequently that we might wonder if it’s just another pop culture phenomenon. It’s not. PTSD is a very serious mental health condition. It is quite complex and incredibly disabling for those who endure it.
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is often associated with those in the military who have seen or experienced combat first-hand, but it isn’t exclusive to that population. PTSD can occur in anyone who has seen or experienced a traumatic event.
Symptoms of PTSD
Usually when someone experiences a terrifying or life-altering event, they temporarily experience mental health symptoms as a result. With treatment and a high level of self-care, people who experience an event in that context usually get better, but sometimes the mental health symptoms caused by the event persist for months or years. In that case, the person who experienced the trauma develops PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD include:
- Reliving the event
- Nightmares or flashbacks of the event
- Sensory or emotional reactions triggered by memories of the trauma
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulties with memory or concentration
- Feeling hopeless or numb
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Being easily startled or reactive
- Aggression and anger
- Self-destructive behavior
This isn’t a comprehensive list, but a brief enumeration of what is, clearly, an extremely debilitating affliction for the person suffering from it and for those who care about them.
Different Kinds of PTSD?
There are different classes of PTSD. PTSD itself is diagnosed when an individual experiences an event that occurs once, like a car accident, an experience in combat, or the death of a loved one.
C-PTSD, or complex post-traumatic stress disorder, is diagnosed when someone experiences trauma repeatedly. Some examples are:
- Repeated childhood abuse or neglect
- Ongoing domestic violence
- Living through war for a long period of time
PTSD can also be classified as either acute or chronic. Acute PTSD is diagnosed when the symptoms are debilitating for a short period of time – perhaps six months – while chronic PTSD is diagnosed when the symptoms go on for a long period of time.
Treatment Options
There are treatment options available for anyone experiencing PTSD symptoms, whether they are chronic or acute. It is imperative that you know you are not alone and that your symptoms are treatable through a combination of therapeutic options.
In the Tri-State Area
Jason Meisel, NP and Stephanie Owusu, PMHNP at Meisel NP Psychiatry provide services in New York state, New York City (Park Slope, Brooklyn area), New Jersey, and Connecticut. We can assist you with managing PTSD symptoms, whether they are acute or chronic. We work closely with you to determine the most effective medication options for you. Genetics play a key role in medication efficacy, so Jason conducts pharmacogenetic testing to determine the right medication for your body chemistry.
Meisel NP Psychiatry works closely with you to determine what treatment protocols work most effectively for you as an individual. In helping individuals with PTSD, we may suggest ketamine treatment as a therapeutic option. We strive to provide compassionate, comprehensive care, and we are a safe, affirming space for the LGBTQIA+ community. Contact us at 740-777-6184 or [email protected] for help in healing your trauma.
Disclaimer: The information contained here was not written by a medical doctor and is intended for informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical advice.
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