What Are The Effects Of PTSD?
Veterans of war, survivors of domestic abuse, and millions of others who have experienced traumatic events struggle in their daily lives because of PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD images often stick with the individual because of the trauma that occurred. This article will discuss the signs and symptoms of PTSD, as well as how it can be helped.
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Categorizing symptoms of PTSD
- 1 type of re-experiencing symptom
- 1 type of avoidance symptom
- 2 types of arousal and reactivity symptoms
- 2 types of cognition and mood symptoms
Within these four categories or clusters, there are multiple possible symptoms that a person can display and they must demonstrate that they are a hindrance to their well-being, such as limiting their ability to work, or form relationships.
The remainder of this article will cover each of these and go over the possible signs and effects of PTSD to give you more context about them. Recognizing the other symptoms that fit within these key groups can lead to formal diagnosis and treatment for those in need.
Re-experiencing symptoms of PTSD
The "re-experiencing" group of symptoms contains characteristics that are essentially what people think of when they hear about the condition. Flashbacks and nightmares are classic examples of re-experiencing in post-traumatic stress disorder.
Flashbacks are referred to as the intrusive recollection of past traumatic events and re-experiencing them in the present. They are separate from one's normal consciousness and are involuntary and uncontrollable and are frequently described as powerful reenactments.
One of the aspects that separate flashbacks in PTSD from ones in other conditions like depression is the present-nature or "nowness" of the sensations. These thoughts, images, and memories from the past can feel realistic and seem as if they are actually happening at that moment.
These past events can be triggered by various stimuli; for example, certain words, sounds, and smells can cause traumatic events to resurface. These images can be vivid and can cause great distress to the person. However, they can also be fragmented as well, and some individuals with PTSD might have some difficulties remembering everything about their trauma.
While many patients may have flashbacks while they are awake, there are others who relive their past experiences through nightmares. Some can also struggle with PTSD during all hours of the day.
Bad dreams can occur over and over and significantly reduce one's sleep quality, leading to other health problems as well as exacerbating other psychiatric conditions and making the nightmares more intense and more frequent. Since flashbacks and nightmares are very distressing, they can also result in powerful psychological and physiological responses to the perceived event. These responses may also resemble the same ones that occurred when the traumatic event actually took place.
Avoidance symptoms
It is very common and natural for people living with PTSD to want to stay away from people or other situations that may remind them of past trauma.
Avoidance symptoms are believed to be the most harmful to psychological functioning, and they may be able to predict further development of the disorder. It is hypothesized that this is because these symptoms are connected to fear-associated learning, such as:
- Greater acquisition of fear
- Overgeneralization of conditioning
- Impaired inhibitory learning
- Impaired extinction
Extinction is a term in psychology that refers to the fading of a conditioned or trained response, such as fear, by not reinforcing the behaviors associated with it. Essentially, when someone or something stops performing a certain conditioned action, it will gradually become deconditioned.
Therefore, if extinction is impaired. This means that the conditioned response persists and is potentially made stronger.
For example, those who continue to avoid specific triggers may experience greater fear towards them. Staying away from certain objects might prevent flashbacks; however, it is reinforcing the idea that they are dangerous and consequently amplifies the fear.
By continuing to stay away from triggers, the person does not give themselves a chance to desensitize themselves to the stimuli, which makes extinction weaker and strengthens the learned response.
Arousal and reactivity symptoms
Hyperarousal is another key trait of PTSD that can be chronic and can severely limit a person's quality of life and ability to function. These set of symptoms can include:
- Irritability
- Recklessness
- Hypervigilance
- Sleep disturbances
- A tendency to get easily startled
These effects of PTSD can create sleep disturbances for people as well as make it difficult to concentrate, affecting their day-to-day activities. To others, the individual with PTSD might seem constantly stressed out or appear angry.
It is very common and natural for people living with PTSD to want to stay away from people or other situations that may remind them of past trauma.
Avoidance symptoms are believed to be the most harmful to psychological functioning, and they may be able to predict further development of the disorder. It is hypothesized that this is because these symptoms are connected to fear-associated learning, such as [5]:
- Greater acquisition of fear
- Overgeneralization of conditioning
- Impaired inhibitory learning
- Impaired extinction
Extinction and PTSD
Extinction is a term in psychology that refers to the fading of a conditioned or trained response, such as fear, by not reinforcing the behaviors associated with it. Essentially, when someone or something stops performing a certain conditioned action, it will gradually become deconditioned. If extinction is impaired, this may mean that the conditioned response persists and is potentially made stronger.
For example, those who continue to avoid specific triggers may experience greater fear towards them. Staying away from certain objects might prevent flashbacks; however, it is reinforcing the idea that they are dangerous and consequently amplifies the fear.
By continuing to stay away from triggers, the person does not give themselves a chance to desensitize themselves to the stimuli, which makes extinction weaker and strengthens the learned response.
Some people with PTSD might have symptoms related to other people and not just themselves; individuals might believe that no one else can be trusted and feel estranged from the ones that they care about.
They can also find that they do not enjoy the same activities that they used to, and no longer participate in them, which is another trait often found in major depression.
Regarding cognitive abilities, one of the primary areas that PTSD can affect one's memory, which can cause individuals to have trouble fully recalling the troubling event(s) that happened. They might also be prone to having false memories when being presented with concepts that are associated with their trauma. Additionally, studies involving war veterans have demonstrated that PTSD can also impair a person's sustained attention as well as initial learning, leading to decreased intellectual functioning.
Cognition and mood effects of PTSD can be persistent and reflect a trauma survivor's emotional well-being. They might feel as if nothing can ever change and improve, creating perpetual unhappiness. However, treatment is available, and things can get better for those with PTSD.
Treatment for PTSD
Although it can be distressing and can seriously alter one's life in a negative way, there are various treatments that can address these effects of PTSD. However, a combination of different things may be required - one type of medication may not be effective for a group of symptoms as another one.
For example, SSRIs, which is short for a class of antidepressant drugs called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, have been studied extensively and have been found to provide relief for re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal symptoms, and of course, depressive moods.
Psychotherapy can also be a valuable tool for treating the emotional side of PTSD and teach people new ways to cope. Research has found that online psychotherapy options are just as effective in treating the symptoms and effects of PTSD and other conditions as its in-person counterpart, producing similar long-term improvements to patients’ quality of life.
If you or a loved one has been showing signs of the effects of PTSD, such as depression, licensed counselors and therapists are available online to help you at BetterHelp. Through BetterHelp, you can be matched with a therapist who is experienced in treating PTSD, who can meet with you on a flexible schedule via phone, text, or video chat, all from the comfort and convenience of your own home.
Takeaway
What are the long-term effects of PTSD?
Post traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, can have a range of long-term effects that impact various aspects of an individual's life. These effects can vary in severity and duration, depending on factors such as the nature of the trauma, the individual's resilience, and the presence of support systems. Some common long-term effects of PTSD include:
- Chronic Psychological Distress: Many individuals who develop PTSD continue to experience chronic psychological distress, including intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, and intense emotional reactions related to the trauma. These symptoms can persist for years without treatment.
- Impaired Relationships: PTSD can strain relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners. Individuals with PTSD may struggle with emotional intimacy, trust issues, and difficulties in communicating their experiences and emotions to others.
- Physical Health Problems: The chronic stress associated with PTSD can contribute to physical health problems or physical reactions such as cardiovascular issues, gastrointestinal problems, and compromised immune function.
- Substance Abuse: Some individuals with PTSD may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with their symptoms, leading to substance use disorders.
- Employment and Educational Challenges: PTSD can interfere with an individual's ability to work or attend school regularly, potentially leading to job loss, academic setbacks, or career instability.
- Increased Risk of Other Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with PTSD have a higher risk of developing other mental health disorders, including depression, severe anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached at 988 and is available 24/7.
- Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems, such as insomnia or nightmares, can persist long-term in individuals with PTSD, further exacerbating their distress.
What are the 20 core symptoms of PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition that can result from exposure to traumatic events. Individuals with PTSD may experience a wide range of symptoms that affect their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Here is a consolidated list of 20 core symptoms commonly associated with PTSD, reflecting the diverse ways in which this condition can manifest.
- Recurrent, distressing memories of the traumatic event(s).
- Distressing dreams related to the traumatic event(s).
- Flashbacks or a sense of reliving the traumatic event(s).
- Intense psychological distress or physiological reactions when exposed to reminders of the event(s).
- Avoidance of distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings associated with the event(s).
- Avoidance of external reminders, such as places, people, conversations, or activities, that trigger distressing memories or feelings.
- Inability to remember important aspects of the traumatic event(s).
- Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world.
- Persistent distorted thoughts about the cause or consequences of the traumatic event(s).
- Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame).
- Markedly diminished interest or participation in significant activities.
- Feeling detached from others or experiencing a sense of emotional numbness.
- Irritability or angry outbursts.
- Reckless or self-destructive behavior.
- Hypervigilance (constantly being on guard).
- Exaggerated startle response.
- Problems with concentration.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Chronic psychological distress.
- Impaired social and occupational functioning.
What can untreated PTSD lead to?
Untreated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can lead to a range of negative consequences that affect various aspects of an individual's life. These consequences can become more severe and long-lasting if PTSD goes untreated. Some potential outcomes or risk factors of untreated PTSD include:
- Chronic Psychological Distress: Untreated PTSD often leads to persistent and severe psychological distress, including negative thoughts, intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks, and intense emotional reactions related to the traumatic event(s).
- Impaired Relationships: PTSD can strain relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners. Individuals with untreated PTSD may struggle with emotional intimacy, trust issues, and difficulties in communicating their experiences and emotions to others.
- Physical Health Problems: The chronic stress associated with untreated PTSD can contribute to physical health problems such as cardiovascular issues, gastrointestinal problems, and compromised immune function.
- Substance Abuse: Some individuals with untreated PTSD may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with their symptoms, leading to substance use disorders.
- Employment and Educational Challenges: Untreated PTSD can interfere with an individual's ability to work or attend school regularly, potentially leading to job loss, academic setbacks, or career instability.
- Increased Risk of Other Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with untreated PTSD have a higher risk of developing other mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached at 988 and is available 24/7.
- Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems, such as insomnia or nightmares, can persist and worsen in individuals with untreated PTSD, further exacerbating their distress.
Does PTSD ever go away?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex and chronic condition, but it is not necessarily a lifelong or permanent condition for everyone. The course of PTSD can vary widely among individuals, and while it may persist for some, it can improve or remit for others, especially with appropriate treatment and support.
Does PTSD cause brain damage?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that primarily affects psychological and emotional well-being. It does not directly cause brain damage in the way that physical trauma, infections, or certain neurological conditions can harm the brain's structure or function. However, PTSD can have various effects on brain function and structure, which are more accurately described as alterations or changes rather than brain damage.
Does PTSD get worse with age?
The course of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can vary from person to person, and whether it gets worse with age depends on several factors, including the individual's specific experiences, coping mechanisms, treatment, and support systems. Here are some key considerations regarding how PTSD can change over time:
- Natural Recovery: For some individuals, particularly those who have experienced a single traumatic event and have strong support systems, PTSD symptoms may naturally improve or remit over time without formal treatment.
- Chronic PTSD: On the other hand, if an individual has experienced multiple traumas, prolonged trauma exposure, or lacks appropriate treatment and support, PTSD can become a chronic condition, with symptoms persisting or worsening over the years.
- Cumulative Effect: The cumulative effect of multiple traumas over a person's lifetime can increase the risk of developing more complex and severe forms of PTSD, which may be associated with greater impairment over time.
- Age-Related Challenges: Aging can bring about additional challenges that intersect with PTSD. Older adults with PTSD may face age-related health issues, cognitive changes, and social isolation, which can complicate symptom management.
- Resilience and Coping: Some individuals develop effective coping strategies and resilience over time, which can help them manage their PTSD symptoms as they age. Supportive relationships, therapy, and self-help techniques can contribute to resilience.
- Treatment: Opportunity for appropriate treatment, such as trauma-focused therapies and medications, can significantly impact the course of PTSD. Individuals who receive early and effective treatment may experience symptom improvement and better long-term outcomes.
- Relapse: PTSD symptoms can sometimes resurface or worsen in response to stressors, reminders of the trauma, or new traumatic experiences, regardless of age. It's important to be aware of potential triggers and seek help if symptoms worsen.
How does someone with PTSD act?
Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can exhibit a wide range of behaviors and symptoms, which can vary in intensity and presentation among different individuals. It's important to recognize that the expression of PTSD can be influenced by factors such as the nature of the trauma, the individual's coping mechanisms, and their level of social support. Common behaviors and signs associated with PTSD may include:
Re-experiencing Symptoms:
- Flashbacks: Individuals with PTSD may suddenly and vividly relive the traumatic event, feeling as if it is happening again.
- Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the trauma are common.
- Intrusive Thoughts: They may have persistent and distressing memories or thoughts about the traumatic event.
Avoidance and Numbing:
- Avoidance of Triggers: People with PTSD often go to great lengths to avoid reminders of the trauma. After a traumatic event, avoidance symptoms may include avoiding certain places, people, or activities.
- Emotional Numbing: They may have difficulty experiencing positive emotions and may feel emotionally detached or "numb" to the world around them.
Hyperarousal and Reactivity:
- Irritability: Individuals with PTSD may become easily irritable or have frequent outbursts of anger.
- Hypervigilance: They may be constantly on high alert, feeling as though danger is always present.
- Exaggerated Startle Response: Sudden noises or unexpected events can trigger strong physical and emotional reactions.
- Problems with Concentration: Many people with PTSD find it challenging to concentrate on tasks.
- Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, frequent awakenings, and nightmares are common.
Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition:
- Negative Self-Perception: They may have persistent negative beliefs about themselves, others, or the world.
- Guilt and Shame: Feelings of guilt or shame related to the traumatic event may be prominent.
- Detachment: They may feel emotionally detached from others and experience a sense of isolation.
Changes in Social and Occupational Functioning:
- Difficulty in Relationships: PTSD can strain relationships due to emotional numbness, avoidance behaviors, and difficulty communicating.
- Work or School Problems: Impaired concentration and emotional distress can affect job performance or academic functioning.
Is PTSD a bad mental illness?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that results from exposure to trauma including physical abuse, sexual assault or abuse, childhood abuse, living through a natural disaster, war, or other traumatic events. It can have a significant impact on an individual's well-being and daily life and may be influenced by family history or genetics. However, it's important to clarify that whether a mental illness is "bad" or not is subjective and can vary from person to person.
What does undiagnosed PTSD look like?
Undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) refers to a situation in which an individual is experiencing symptoms of PTSD but has not received a formal diagnosis from a mental health professional. It's important to recognize that the presentation of undiagnosed PTSD can vary widely among individuals, and not everyone will exhibit the same signs or symptoms. Some common indicators or behaviors associated with undiagnosed PTSD may include:
- Flashbacks and Intrusive Memories: The person may have recurrent and distressing memories of the traumatic event(s), often accompanied by intense emotional reactions. They might not openly discuss these experiences but may appear preoccupied or distant when these memories intrude.
- Nightmares: Individuals with undiagnosed PTSD may have frequent nightmares related to the traumatic event(s). These nightmares can cause sleep disturbances and distress.
- Avoidance Behaviors: They may avoid situations, places, people, or activities that remind them of the trauma. This avoidance can be subtle and may not always be obvious to others.
- Emotional Numbing: People with undiagnosed PTSD may have difficulty expressing their emotions or appear emotionally "numb." They might struggle to experience positive emotions and may withdraw from social interactions.
- Irritability and Mood Swings: Undiagnosed PTSD can lead to irritability, mood swings, and outbursts of anger, which may be misunderstood or attributed to other causes.
- Hypervigilance: They may exhibit a heightened state of alertness, always on guard for potential threats. This hypervigilance may not be apparent to others but can contribute to chronic stress.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Individuals with undiagnosed PTSD may have difficulty focusing, concentrating, or making decisions due to intrusive thoughts and emotional distress.
- Physical Symptoms: Some individuals may experience physical symptoms, such as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic pain, which can be linked to their untreated psychological distress.
- Changes in Relationships: Undiagnosed PTSD can strain relationships due to avoidance behaviors, emotional numbness, and communication difficulties. Friends and family may notice changes in the individual's interactions and emotional availability.
- Self-Medication: Some people with undiagnosed PTSD may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances as a way to cope with their symptoms, potentially leading to substance use problems.
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