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PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. This could include combat, sexual assault, natural or man-made disasters and the sudden death of a loved one.
The disorder typically affects adults but can also occur in children. The diagnosis is made after a person has had symptoms for more than a month and they are severe enough to interfere with their relationships or work.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
Symptoms can range from intense anxiety, distress and physical agitation to feelings of numbness or detachment. They can also include problems sleeping and difficulties with concentrating. They can also include thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
What is the cause of PTSD?
Research suggests that PTSD is the result of an underactivation of the prefrontal cortex (the area of the brain responsible for decision-making) and an overactivation of the amygdala (the part of the brain that reacts to stress). It is thought that people with PTSD are stuck in an over-the-top response pattern. This makes it hard for them to change their thoughts and feelings when they are triggered.
What are the treatments for PTSD?
Psychiatric treatment for PTSD usually involves talking therapy such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). It can also involve medication. Medication can help reduce the effects of PTSD such as anxiety, depression and sleep problems. It may be used together with talking therapy or as a stand-alone treatment.
What is the best way to treat PTSD?
Often the most effective treatment for PTSD is psychotherapy. Talking therapy helps to break down the barriers that PTSD can create and helps you to understand the root causes of your symptoms. It can also teach you ways to manage your reactions and emotions.
Counselling can help you to identify faulty beliefs that are contributing to your PTSD and learn new ones. It can help you to recognise how you respond to stressful situations and encourage you to use positive coping techniques such as meditation or relaxation.
Other types of treatment for PTSD can include support groups, hypnosis and mindfulness training. These can be useful if you are unable to access regular counselling sessions due to your busy schedule.
What are the most common medications for PTSD?
Antidepressants can be used to help with the core symptoms of PTSD such as flashbacks, nightmares and avoiding situations that trigger distressing memories. They are usually taken in conjunction with talking therapy and can be effective in reducing the severity of these symptoms.
Why are some PTSD sufferers more likely to have other conditions?
It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of people who have long-standing PTSD may also have additional mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. These may have developed in the aftermath of their traumatic experience or as a result of the distressing symptoms they experience.
Research is ongoing to understand the causes of PTSD and what factors influence whether someone will recover. This will help us develop more targeted and effective therapies. The hope is that we can prevent PTSD from occurring and treat it early on to maximize recovery.
