PTSD Articles

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect individuals who have been through traumatic life events. There is no prequalification for anything that can be considered traumatic, making this disorder personal. Trauma, in this context, can include a variety of events ranging from a natural disaster, sexual or physical assault, or anything that causes significant lasting traumatic memories. 

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 suffer from panic attacks, which 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 — opening new doors of opportunity and resources for PTSD survivors. 

Below, we’re discussing possible symptoms of PTSD, and the role that therapy can play in supporting those with PTSD. 

Signs And Symptoms Of PTSD

The symptoms of PTSD can occur soon after an event or years later. Manifestations of this can depend on the person, the trauma and the specific circumstances. Below are some common symptoms of PTSD: 

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

Healing From PTSD Is Possible

Many people who go through traumatic events may find that they have trouble healing. This can make sense, as your brain can change after you’ve been through a traumatic event. You may not know how to cope with what you’ve experienced, but you can learn over time. Consider trying to be patient while you work through your emotions. Many can reach a higher quality of life if they remain dedicated to working through your trauma. 

Treatment Options For PTSD

There are many kinds of therapy or types of counseling that can treat PTSD. Some of them may include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). In EMDR, the patient may be exposed to stimuli associated with their trauma. They can then learn to tolerate distress, and eventually their PTSD symptoms, triggers, flashbacks, and nightmares may decrease. 

Additionally, someone living with PTSD can also try Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), where the client learns to reframe their thoughts. This can result in an emotional shift and change as a result. This can be helpful if the person experiencing PTSD is having a lot of 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 learn to be at peace. 

Finally, 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 (like EMDR) — and can then learn that they’re not in danger. 

How Can Online Counseling Help Those Living With PTSD?

An excellent option for treating PTSD for many is online therapy. It can be hard to get to a local therapist’s office when you live with the condition or comorbid disorders, such as depression or anxiety disorder. This can be a barrier to treatment for some, and can prolong the effects and manifestations of untreated PTSD. However, online therapy can be a more accessible and affordable option to many, allowing you to seek treatment when you’re in the privacy of your home (or wherever you feel comfortable receiving therapy). 

Is Online Therapy Effective For PTSD? 

With so many therapeutic options available, you may be wondering if online therapy is effective for those living with PTSD. Recent clinical research has shown that online therapy is a sufficient means to build the therapeutic relationship with those who experience difficulties maintaining connection due to PTSD, as well as marked improvements for PTSD, depression and comorbid anxiety disorders in clinical study groups.

Takeaway

PTSD can occur after someone has experienced trauma. There are many different manifestations, all of which can range based on individual experiences and comorbidities. Understanding this range can lead to a greater degree of empathy and validation for survivors and those who experience this condition. Online therapy, as well as CBT and EMDR can be a helpful method to address underlying trauma in those looking for a higher quality of life. BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed therapist in your area of need.