PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is caused when someone has experienced an extremely stressful, frightening and distressing traumatic in their life.
The sufferer relives the event both consciously and subconsciously through either flashbacks or nightmares. To the individual having them, they feel they are reliving the trauma and in that situation again.
PTSD was originally diagnosed to military personnel who had experienced the horrors of war, however no it is diagnosed to people who have also suffered abuse, accidents and many other traumatic experiences.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a severe mental health condition, where the sufferer relives an extremely distressing and frightening event that caused great stress at the time. However this event continues to cause issues, repeating itself in nightmares and flashbacks.
Sometimes the response doesn't occur immediately after the event. PTSD can surface many months or even years after the initial trauma.
Do I have PTSD?
PTSD can only be diagnosed by a specialist medical professional. However if you have experienced any of the following and are experiencing flashbacks / nightmares about it, there is a chance you do have PTSD.
Serious road accidents
Violent personal assaults
Sexual assaults
Victims of crime
Serious health problems
Childbirth experiences
How can my PTSD be treated?
Depending on the severity of your PTSD, your therapist will work alongside you to find the most appropriate methods of treatment. CBT style therapy has proven to be the most successful treatment, with an emphasis on the Trauma side of treatment. You will learn skills to use that will enable you to relax, regulate and express in a healthy manner. You will also learn coping and processing skills to deal with any confusion around your trauma. The journey will end with future growth, allowing you to plan and build for your future life.