Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Most people have short term responses to life-threatening events. Then there are some who develop longer term symptoms that can lead to a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). At Ridgeview, we understand how distressing this disorder can be and the toll it can take on your mental health, and your personal and professional relationships. If you often feel numb and detached from your loved ones, and feel like it is virtually impossible to maintain close relationships; you are not alone. Did you know that PTSD affects 3.6% of the U.S. adult population—about 9 million individuals? About 37% of those diagnosed with PTSD are classified as having severe symptoms.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

If you have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event – such as military combat or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, it’s normal to feel a heightened sense of anxiety for a few weeks afterward. However, if you are still experiencing mental distress months or years later, you may have post-traumatic stress disorder.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Causes

PTSD is caused by trauma which can vary in severity depending on the individual. An event that is detrimental for one person can leave another unaffected. Trauma has been categorized as Acute – resulting from a single incident, Chronic – repeated and prolonged trauma such as domestic violence or other verbal/physical abuse, and Complex which is exposure to varied and multiple traumatic events, these events are often invasive and interpersonal in nature.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Signs and symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on triggers present and how long it’s been since the traumatic event happened. Some common symptoms include:

1. Re-experiencing symptoms suchs as intrusive distressing memories and flashbacks.
2. Avoidance of people, places or things.
3. Cognitive and mood symptoms.
4. Heightened arousal symptoms such as hypervigilance or angry outbursts.
5. Difficulty sleeping and concentrating are also common.
6. PTSD-sufferers sometimes exhibit self-destructive behavior, such as substance abuse.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment

Ridgeview Institute provides comprehensive, evidenced based PTSD treatment which includes our inpatient and outpatient programs. You can call us at any time to speak with a mental health professional.