Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder that affects individuals after exposure to a traumatic event or painful experience, causing a persistent feeling of fear and anxiety.
In addition, individuals frequently and repeatedly relive memories of the event for years, affecting their lives. In this article, we will learn how to deal with this disorder and its treatment methods.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental disorder that occurs after a person is exposed to a traumatic event or painful experience that leaves a deep psychological impact, such as accidents, wars, and assaults.
The person suffers from nightmares and recurring memories of the event, causing constant fear and anxiety, which prevents them from performing their daily tasks.
Causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
The causes of PTSD vary depending on the situation the person was exposed to and their ability to cope, including:
- Loss of a loved one.
- Exposure to serious accidents.
- Exposure to wars and disasters.
- Witnessing bloody and violent events.
- Experiencing sexual or physical assault.
Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
The symptoms of PTSD vary depending on their severity and duration, and include:
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Recurrent painful memories.
- Recurrent nightmares and hallucinations.
- Feeling constant tension and experiencing anger outbursts.
- Feeling guilt, hopelessness, and sadness.
- Avoiding places and people associated with the event.
- Feeling fear and shortness of breath when exposed to a similar situation.
How to Treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Treatment for PTSD depends on the patient's condition and the severity of the symptoms, and includes:
- Medication.
- Exposure therapy. Behavioral therapy.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Medications for treating post-traumatic stress disorder
Medications are taken under medical supervision depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's response to treatment. These medications include:
- Prozac.
- Zoloft.
- Lustral.
- Paroxetine.
- Cipralex.
Complications of post-traumatic stress disorder
If post-traumatic stress disorder is not treated in a timely manner, it may lead to complications such as depression or chronic anxiety disorder.
It may also increase sleep disturbances, nightmares, and appetite disorders. There are also serious complications such as alcohol addiction, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm.
Preventing post-traumatic stress disorder
Although psychological traumas cannot be avoided, there are ways to avoid the risk of developing this disorder or reduce its symptoms, such as:
- Not suppressing emotions.
- Avoiding social isolation.
- Seeking psychological help.
- Exercising.
- Talking to a professional.
Frequently asked questions about post-traumatic stress disorder
How long does it take to treat post-traumatic stress disorder
The duration of treatment varies from person to person depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's response, but it may last from 3 to 12 months or more.
How long does post-traumatic stress disorder last
This disorder lasts for several months or years after exposure to the trauma, and this depends on how quickly treatment begins and the psychological support the patient receives.
When should I see a doctor
You should see a doctor if the symptoms persist for more than a month after the traumatic event, especially if these symptoms worsen and develop into complications.
Article Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental illness that affects individuals after they experience a traumatic event that is difficult for them to accept. They continue to relive the event and suffer from anxiety attacks and nightmares.
It is essential to see a doctor promptly to determine the appropriate treatment before the symptoms worsen and become more difficult to manage, requiring a longer course of treatment than usual.