Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
What Is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychiatric condition arising after exposure to a traumatic event or repeated, traumatizing events. Such situations include serious accidents, natural disasters, violent personal assaults, witnessing repeated acts of domestic violence, and military combat.
PTSD is characterized by intrusive memories of the event by way of involuntary memories, flashbacks, or recurrent, disturbing dreams. In addition, there are attempts to avoid situations that can trigger memories. Oftentimes, people have rageful outbursts, memory loss of those outbursts, and hyperarousal. These symptoms must last longer than a month and cause impairment in social, personal, or occupational functioning for a diagnosis of PTSD to be made.
PTSD affects individuals of any age, gender, or cultural background. However, it is more commonly identified in women than men. In the United States, the lifetime prevalence is about 8% with higher rates among people involved in warfare, sexual or domestic violence, and serious accidents and natural disasters.
PTSD results from a complex interplay of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Not everyone exposed to severe trauma develops it. This suggests a role for a genetic predisposition and pre-existing mental health conditions. The severity of, duration of, and proximity to the trauma also increase the risk of developing PTSD.
Effective Treatment
Neuroimaging studies show that PTSD affects several brain regions. The amygdala, involved in processing fear, is often hyperactive. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and the regulation of emotions, is underactive. The hippocampus, crucial in memory formation, tends to be reduced in volume.
Effective treatment includes psychotherapy and medication management. Trauma-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are particularly effective. Antidepressants and beta-blockers can also help regulate angry outbursts. There are medications that can eliminate nightmares and help improve sleep. Complementary approaches such as yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness techniques also provide some relief.
Oftentimes, along with PTSD, there are substance dependence issues. Substances such as alcohol and marijuana are often used or abused to help manage symptoms. The substance dependence often needs to be addressed simultaneously with the PTSD symptoms in order to maximize the benefits of treatment.
In summary, PTSD is a debilitating condition resulting from severe traumatic experiences with a profound impact on a patient’s mental and physical health, as well as that of their loved ones. Early intervention and a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan are key to improving life for those suffering from PTSD.