Trauma and PTSD Treatment

What is Trauma?

Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. We’ve all experienced tough times in our lives. When we talk about trauma and mental health, we mean the impact that distressing events have on a person.

Trauma can have varied effects on individuals, and it’s essential to understand that experiencing trauma doesn’t indicate a flaw. Research has shown that trauma can lead to changes in the brain. Studies show that individuals with trauma may have a smaller hippocampus, a brain region responsible for memory and emotions.

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition resulting from experiencing or witnessing a highly stressful event. Symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about the event can occur. 

Following a traumatic event, many individuals may struggle to adapt and cope with the situation temporarily. If an individual experiences worsening symptoms that persist for months or years and significantly impact their daily functioning, they might be dealing with PTSD.

Some examples of events that could cause PTSD:

• Death of a loved one
• Experiencing prolonged medical trauma
• War or being in combat
• Natural disasters
• Domestic abuse 
• Sexual abuse
• Witnessing accidents or deaths

It’s crucial to seek treatment as soon as PTSD symptoms appear to alleviate the symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Symptoms of Trauma and PTSD

Trauma and PTSD often have symptoms that cross with one another. Below, we will review a few of the most common manifestations:

• Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or using illicit drugs
• Difficulty focusing
• Irritability
• Self-isolation
• Feeling on edge
• Having a strong response when startled by something
• Warped feelings of worry, blame, or guilt
• Difficulty recalling important details of the traumatic event
• Angry outbursts over reminders of the traumatic event
• Flashbacks of traumatic events on repeat
• Nightmares about the traumatic event
• Little to no interest in doing things that were once enjoyable
• Intense physical response when thoughts about the event come to mind
• Panic attacks
• Feeling emotionally numb
• Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or using illicit drugs

Effects of Trauma and PTSD on the Brain and Body

Trauma, particularly in childhood, can lead to long-lasting adverse effects when left untreated. It can also result in deeply ingrained thought patterns of worry, fear, and worthlessness.

Severe PTSD, if left untreated, can significantly impair a person’s ability to function at work, home, and in social environments. If you or someone you love is experiencing the symptoms of PTSD or trauma mentioned above, it is important to seek help from a trained professional.

Both trauma and PTSD can have profound effects on a person’s brain structure and function. Experiencing abuse or neglect, separation from or loss of a parent or companion, being a victim of violence or bullying, going to war, or experiencing any other traumatic event can change the brain in a way that makes a person more sensitive to future events, including everyday stress.

Studies have shown links between prolonged trauma and PTSD and the following conditions:

• Continuous elevated levels of cortisol in the body.
• Higher risk of developing anxiety or depressive disorders.
• Chronic headaches, muscle and joint pains, and an activated immune response.
• Cardiovascular complications such as elevated blood pressure and heart palpitations.
• Substance abuse or chemical dependency.

Thankfully, treatment for trauma and PTSD is continuously adapting and improving. With the many forms of therapy available today, people living with trauma or PTSD can find a treatment that will fit their unique needs. 

Treatment Options

Once a trauma or PTSD diagnosis has been reached, your practitioner will discuss what treatment options may be most beneficial. 

Find Treatment

Trauma and PTSD therapy can be customized to meet your specific needs. Finding the right balance of psychotherapy and medication can help you gain control over a traumatic experience to improve your long-term physical and mental health. 

Reach out today and see how the team at Blue Star Recovery can help you achieve relief.

References: 

American Psychological Association: What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

National Institute on Drug Abuse: Trauma and Stress

National Library of Medicine: Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services

Mayo Clinic: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Clevland Clinic: EMDR Therapy