It’s normal to feel emotional distress, anxiety, and anger following a traumatic event, but for about 7% of adults, the experience causes a more severe condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When PTSD develops, the team at Summit Health and Wellness Center provides the help you or your child needs to overcome the deep-seated anxiety and move forward from your symptoms. Dr. Smart treats patients from throughout Oklahoma who struggle with PTSD. To learn more about the effective treatments available for PTSD, call the office in Norman, Oklahoma, or schedule an appointment online today.

request an appointment

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Various factors contribute to the onset of PTSD:

  1. Traumatic Events:
  • Experiences such as combat exposure, sexual assault, natural disasters, serious accidents, or violent personal assaults.
  1. Genetic Factors:
  • A family history of mental health disorders may increase susceptibility to PTSD.
  1. Brain Chemistry:
  • Imbalances in neurotransmitters and hormones, particularly in response to stress, can affect how individuals process trauma.
  1. Psychological Factors:
  • Pre-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, can heighten the risk of developing PTSD.
  1. Environmental Factors:
  • Ongoing stressors, lack of social support, and the presence of other life challenges can influence the likelihood of PTSD developing after trauma.
  1. Severity and Duration of Trauma:
  • More intense and prolonged traumatic experiences are associated with a higher risk of PTSD.

Understanding these factors can help in recognizing those at risk and guiding effective treatment and support strategies.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) typically fall into four categories:

1. Intrusive Memories:

  • Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event.
  • Flashbacks, where the person feels as if they are reliving the trauma.
  • Nightmares related to the event.

2. Avoidance:

  • Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations related to the trauma.
  • Steering clear of places, activities, or people that remind one of the event.

3. Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition:

  • Persistent negative thoughts about oneself or others.
  • Feelings of hopelessness or detachment from friends and family.
  • Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
  • Memory problems, including trouble recalling key aspects of the trauma.

4. Altered Arousal and Reactivity:

  • Irritability or angry outbursts.
  • Hypervigilance or being easily startled.
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
  • Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behavior.

These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. If someone experiences these symptoms after a traumatic event, seeking professional help is crucial. We are here to help you at Summit Health and Wellness Center!

How do you treat PTSD?

Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) often involves a combination of therapies and, in some cases, medication. Here are common treatment approaches:

1. Psychotherapy:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with trauma.
  • Exposure Therapy: Helps individuals confront and process memories of the traumatic event in a safe environment to reduce fear and anxiety.
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Involves processing traumatic memories while focusing on external stimuli, like guided eye movements.

2. Medication:

  • Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline and paroxetine are commonly prescribed.
  • Anti-anxiety Medications: Sometimes used for short-term relief but generally not a long-term solution due to the risk of dependency.
  • Prazosin: May be prescribed to help with nightmares related to PTSD.

3. Support Groups:

  • Connecting with others who have experienced similar traumas can provide emotional support and shared coping strategies.

4. Lifestyle Changes:

  • Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep can help manage symptoms.
  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, may also be beneficial.

5. Education and Awareness:

  • Understanding PTSD and its effects can empower individuals and their families, promoting effective coping strategies.

6. Veteran-Specific Treatments:

  • For military veterans, specialized programs focusing on trauma can provide targeted support.

A tailored treatment plan developed with a mental health professional is essential for effectively managing PTSD.