Do I have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Trauma
Traumatic events can happen at any time and without warning. For those who experience these events first hand, the aftermath can be quite unsettling.
In fact, most people who experience a traumatic event will react by feeling on edge, have upsetting memories or thoughts, or have trouble sleeping. This is normal, and these reactions (or symptoms) will vary in duration as the person begins to recover from the experience - and eventually come to terms with it.
PTSD
The majority of people who experience traumatic events will recover normally over time and will see their symptoms subside in a few weeks or months. However, some people will not recover normally, and the symptoms mentioned above will persist for months or longer.
These individuals are likely to be experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a condition resulting in significant problems dealing with or recovering from a traumatic event. This condition can persist for some time and disrupt daily life in a number of ways.
Get Help to Understand your Reactions
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can be complex, so it is important to have this condition verified by your GP or a mental health practitioner if you suspect this applies to you. As mentioned, most people will recover naturally from a traumatic event over time - so experiencing the symptoms described above is a normal part of recovery. Yet, if you have experienced a trauma and you find it difficult to recover normally - feeling that your recovery is hindered or interrupted in some way - then it is important to seek help.
Treatments for PTSD that Help
There are a number of evidenced based treatments for PTSD and they include some variation of trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. These therapies are designed to deal with the traumatic event and its impacts on you personally and on your life. Processing the event in the safety and confidence of a professional who understands your reactions and your unique situation can be quite helpful, and can lead to a reduction in the intensity of how you reflect upon this past event.
Take the First Step to Recovery
Reaching out for help with a willingness to deal with past experiences is an important step in moving forward. Going through the process of dealing with a trauma and its impacts will give you the opportunity to regain control over your reactions, and eventually control over your life again.
Contact Dirk Hansen
Contact Dirk Hansen if you would like to discuss therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Dirk offers a free telephone consultation and he can review your situation to determine the best approaches for you and your situation. Click here to contact Dirk