Everyone has bad memories that make them cringe. But some bad memories go a step beyond that. They may terrorize the person who has them and make it impossible to live everyday life.
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is more common than you might think. It affects everyone from veterans to disaster survivors. PTSD treatment options become necessary when this trauma interferes with everyday life.
If you’ve heard of PTSD before, but aren’t sure what it is, you’ve come to the right place.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is when a traumatic event leads to lasting psychological suffering. This event is often scary, dangerous, shocking, or painful. It’s such a powerful negative experience that it leaves a vivid recollection in one’s mind.
PTSD can also come from multiple events over time. While these events may be negative experiences on their own, they combine to have a devastating effect on one’s psyche.
PTSD can happen from virtually any kind of negative experience, but these are the most common:
- A major accident, such as a car crash
- Combat in the armed services
- Abuse, such as domestic abuse
- Being a member of a high-demand religion or cult
- Being the victim of a violent crime
- Losing a job or loved one
What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?
PTSD can lead to any of the following symptoms:
- Vivid recollection of the event(s)
- Reliving the event again and again
- Similar events (even when seen on television) triggering PTSD symptoms
- Avoidance of anything related to that event
- Behavioral changes that prevent normal everyday function
- Depression, anxiety, and mood swings
The symptoms of PTSD are different for everyone, and some people may experience only 1 or 2 of the above. PTSD comes in degrees, so some may have it worse than others. But whatever the case, PTSD is a serious condition that can be often debilitating no matter the degree.
What Are Your PTSD Treatment Options?
There are a wide variety of options for treating PTSD. Many resort to psychotherapy and medication. However, these types of therapy may work for most, but they may fail to have an effect on others.
EMDR is one of the less common methods of PTSD treatment. It involves lessening the severity of a traumatic memory by means of bilateral stimulation.
EMDR may be relatively new on the scene, but it is by no means ineffective. In some cases, it can be far more effective than alternative methods. Of course, your response to EMDR may be different from others.
Find the Right Treatment for You
PTSD is no laughing matter and can lead to debilitating symptoms for many years. It’s essential to treat PTSD as soon as you become aware of the symptoms, but not all treatments are equal. You may benefit from trying out EMDR if you have struggled to find an effective treatment for your case.
Not sure where to start? Braden Counseling Center is there to assist you in your journey. Get in contact and get a consultation to find the right therapy for your situation.