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Primary author: Sabrina Hossain |Secondary author: Julie Sullivan, NP
Content Warning: Mentions of Abuse and Violence
What Is PTSD?
PTSD, also known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a mental health condition that develops when single or multiple events occur and later on trigger an individual. PTSD can arise in situations where someone either experiences or witnesses trauma. A traumatic event is when something deeply distressing or disturbing happens to an individual, and is left feeling hopeless and unable to feel a full range of emotions.
Examples of Traumatic Events Often Overlooked
Sexism
Racism
Immigrating to a new country
Bullying
Emotional Neglect
Class discrimination
Many people may not consider any of the above-mentioned traumatic. However, the BIPOC community faces systemic and structural barriers leading to a decline in mental health. If the BIPOC individual has not experienced discrimination themselves, witnessing a loved one go through racial harassment or violence can also be traumatic. Immigrants may experience trauma when moving to countries where xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiments are high. Another disadvantage experienced by immigrants is a lacking support systems. Many people may move to a foreign country without their origin families, leaving them vulnerable to developing trauma symptoms and disorders like PTSD.
Common Examples of Traumatic Events:
Physical or sexual abuse in childhood
Being threatened with a weapon
Mugging
Robbery
Domestic Violence
Witnessing an attack or shooting
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD in Children:
Reenacting traumatic event through play
Nightmares about the traumatic event
Adult PTSD:
Nightmares
Flashbacks
Insomnia
Hypervigilance
Severe anxiety
Severe emotional distress
Physical reactions when triggered
Avoidance
Emotional numbness
Gaps in memory
Detachment from loved ones
Feelings of Hopelessness
Difficulty maintaining close relationships
Easily startled or frightened
Self-destructive behavior
Trouble concentrating
Overwhelming guilt and shame
Angry outbursts and aggressive behavior
Causes of PTSD
Intense, long-lasting trauma
Having depression or anxiety
Trauma during childhood or adolescence
Certain jobs that increase risk to exposure
Substance abuse
Isolation or lack of healthy support system
Genetics
Increased risk when eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, or drug abuse are involved
ReKlame Health Can Help
Diagnoses for PTSD
An official diagnosis includes at least one re-experiencing symptom, at least three avoidance symptoms, at least two negative alterations in mood and cognition, and at least two hyperarousal symptoms for a minimum of one month. At Reklame Health, our NPs use a PTSD rating scale and evaluation to provide a proper diagnosis to patients.
Treatment for PTSD
Trauma-focused psychotherapy
Medication Management
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
At ReKlame Health, you can expect a warm, welcoming environment to get you the care you need. PTSD can disrupt your daily life, but with our help, you can overcome these challenges. Also, know that there is no rush to heal, recovery for PTSD takes time, and our Clinicians and NPs understand that. There is no shame in going at your own pace on your journey to heal.
