Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

 1.    It is a mental health condition - triggered by a terrifying event/s or disturbed or emotionally hurtful event as either experiencing it or witnessing it

2.    The symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event

3.    Most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping with the traumatic memories and imaginative rehearsal thoughts

4.    But with time and good self-care, they usually get better

5.    If the symptoms get worse, last for months or even years, and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, you may have PTSD

6.    Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reduce symptoms and improve function

 Symptoms of Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

 1.    The symptoms may start within one month of a traumatic event

2.    But sometimes symptoms may not appear until years after the event

3.    These symptoms cause significant problems in social or work situations and in relationships

4.    They can also interfere with your ability to go about your normal daily tasks

5.    PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions

6.    Symptoms can vary over time or vary from person to person

 Rehearsal Thoughts

 1.    Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event

2.    Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)

3.    Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event

4.    Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event

 Required Basic Behavioral Change

 1.    Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event

2.    Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event

 When to meet Psychologists or Psychiatrists or Doctors?

 1.    Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional

2.    If you have disturbing thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event for more than a month

3.    If they're severe or if you feel you're having trouble getting your life back under control

4.    Getting treatment as soon as possible can help prevent PTSD symptoms from getting worse

 

     MANIVANNAN RJ

Applied Counseling Psychologist