PTSD Articles

Medically reviewed by Andrea Brant, LMHC

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect individuals who have experienced traumatic life events. People who have post-traumatic stress disorder can have flashbacks, nightmares, explosive episodes of anger, and persistent worries that the event might happen again. They may also experience panic attacks, which are usually triggered by something that reminds them of their trauma. Understanding the signs and symptoms of PTSD can help to create a more understanding and empathetic society, potentially opening new doors of opportunity and resources for PTSD survivors. Online therapy can be one way for those with PTSD to receive the professional support they deserve.

Signs and symptoms of PTSD

Below are some common symptoms of PTSD, which may begin soon after the event or begin to manifest months or years later. 

• Intrusive thoughts or memories of the event
• Flashbacks or feeling as if the traumatic event is happening again
• Nightmares about the trauma
• Avoiding places that remind the person of the trauma
• Depression or feelings of hopelessness
• Isolation from friends and family
• Feelings of irritability or mood swings
• Angry outbursts 

Healing from PTSD is possible

Many people who experience traumatic events may find that they have trouble healing. You may not know how to cope with what you’ve experienced on your own, but you can learn over time. Consider trying to be patient while you work through your emotions. Many individuals can reach a higher quality of life if they remain dedicated to working through their trauma with a licensed mental health professional. 

Treatment options for PTSD

Many kinds of therapy can treat PTSD. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, may be one option. In EMDR, you may be guided to move your eyes in specific ways while processing the traumatic events you’ve experienced. This may help you reprocess your memories and heal.

Additionally, someone living with PTSD can also try Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), in which you may learn to reframe your thoughts. This can result in shifts in your emotions and behaviors as a result. This type of therapy can be helpful if the person experiencing PTSD is experiencing nervousness or a comorbid anxiety disorder due to their trauma. When one learns how to improve their negative thought patterns, it can become easier to find peace.

Exposure therapy can be another standard treatment for individuals experiencing PTSD. In this form of therapy, the person can be gradually or rapidly exposed to something that they’re afraid of and can then learn that they’re not in danger. 

An excellent option for treating PTSD may be online therapy. It can be hard to get to a local therapist’s office when you live with PTSD or comorbid disorders, such as depression or anxiety. However, online therapy can be a more accessible and affordable option for many, empowering you to seek treatment from the comfort of your home or any other location with a reliable internet connection.

According to a 2019 study, online cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective form of treatment for adults with PTSD. Those seeking professional help with PTSD symptoms may rest assured that both online and in-person therapy can be valid options.

Takeaway

Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop after someone has experienced trauma. Understanding the range of symptoms that can come with PTSD may lead to a greater degree of empathy and validation for survivors and those who experience this condition. Online therapy, as well as CBT, EMDR, and exposure therapy, can be effective treatment options for those living with PTSD.