Do You Think You Have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PSTD) is an anxiety based disorder, which occurs when a person undergoes a traumatic and life-changing event. This could be from being victimized during a crime, viewing traumatic events in person, natural disasters, the sudden and unexpected death of a close friend or relative, military combat, or a physical or sexual assault as a child or an adult.

The National Center for PTSD, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Fact Sheet defines PSTD as:

"Anyone who has gone through a life-threatening event can develop PTSD. These events can include:

• Combat or military exposure

• Child sexual or physical abuse

• Terrorist attacks

• Sexual or physical assault

• Serious accidents, such as a car wreck

• Natural disasters, such as a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or earthquake. "

PSTD can occur to anyone at any age. Although there is not a single specific cause why some people get PSTD, a number of issues may be involved such as psychological, genetic, physical, and social factors. PSTD may not occur right away in direct relationship to the event, but can appear as long as six months later. Although for many, the symptoms disappear after three months, there are people who suffer from PSTD for years and it can affect every aspect of their daily activities. Your ability to shop, drive a car, and dealing with family and friends can be severely limited without treatment.

What is known is that PSTD is an environment change that physically changes your brain in measurable and visible ways. Studies and research has shown that PTSD changes the biology of the brain and scans show changes in the way memories are stored in the brain. No one knows if it is reversible and there is not a specific test to find it; however, diagnostic testing and an evaluation by a mental health professional can determine whether you are a victim of PSTD.

If you have suffered a traumatic event and suddenly begin to experience consistently re-living the events in your mind, having flashbacks, having episodes of sudden anger, feeling a loss of control, constant crying, having panic or anxiety attacks, nightmares, feelings of depression, fear, or helplessness, you should contact your physician or help or be diagnosed by a mental health professional. Help is available in a variety of ways that can help you cope and maintain a normal lifestyle.

Self-help may consist of staying in contact with friends and family, relaxing, watching TV shows that do not cause mental distress, and avoiding the use of alcohol or drugs. Exercising, writing a journal, or volunteering to help others may also reduce the effects of PSTD. Find a support group online or in your immediate area or support groups that are specific such as Anxiety Disorders Association of America where you can select from all 50 states, including Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

Your doctor or mental health professional can prescribe drugs that will alleviate depression or anxiety. Therapies such as Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Talk Therapy are two types of counseling that can help PSTD. Do not try to ignore it thinking PSTD will go away. If symptoms persist for longer than a month, seek help immediately, especially if you are having feelings of impulsiveness or that you may hurt yourself. If you or someone you know believe help is needed immediately, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center or dial 911 for immediate assistance.

Sources:

National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

MedlinePlus Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Definition

The Mental Health America Resource Center