PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It affects how a person feels, thinks, and responds to stress. The compassionate team at Resilience Behavioral Health in Pikesville, Maryland, led by Christiana Ikome, NP, PMHNP, has the expertise to diagnose and treat PTSD. With proper support, therapy, and treatment, you can manage symptoms and work towards healing and recovery. If you show signs of PTSD, book an evaluation today by calling or booking online. The team offers in-person and virtual appointments.

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after you experience or witness a traumatic event. While it’s normal to feel fear or anxiety in response to trauma, PTSD is defined by symptoms that last for an extended period and significantly interfere with daily life. 

PTSD can cause you to relive the traumatic event, experience emotional numbness, or feel constantly on edge, even in safe situations.

What causes PTSD?

PTSD is caused by experiencing or witnessing events that involve actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. These events can trigger intense fear, helplessness, or horror, leading to lasting psychological effects. 

Common causes of PTSD include:

• Combat or military exposure
• Physical or sexual abuse
• Accidents or natural disasters
• Witnessing violence or death
• Medical trauma

While not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD, certain factors like prior mental health issues, lack of support, or genetic predisposition may increase vulnerability.

What are the signs of PTSD?

The symptoms of PTSD can vary widely but generally fall into four categories:

1. Re-experiencing the trauma

This involves flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts where you feel like you’re reliving the event.

2. Avoidance

You may avoid places, people, or activities that remind you of the trauma. This can also include avoiding talking or thinking about the event.

3. Negative changes in mood or thoughts

Feelings of detachment, guilt, or shame, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions are symptoms of PTSD.

4. Increased arousal

PTSD can cause symptoms like irritability, difficulty sleeping, hypervigilance, or being easily startled.

How is PTSD treated?

Resilience Behavioral Health offers a combination of therapies and support that can help manage symptoms. Common treatment options include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): helps reframe negative thoughts and behaviors related to the trauma
• Prolonged exposure therapy: involves gradually confronting memories of the trauma in a safe and controlled environment
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): helps process traumatic memories by using guided eye movements while focusing on the event
• Medication: prescribed antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications help alleviate symptoms of PTSD
• Support groups: provide a sense of community and understanding among others who have experienced similar trauma

If you suffer from PTSD, the right treatment plan can help you regain a sense of control and rebuild your life.

Get the compassionate care you deserve. Call Resilience Behavioral Health today to book an in-person or virtual appointment. You can also schedule online.