Understanding PTSD: An Introduction
June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As an experienced and qualified trauma counsellor, I want to take this opportunity to talk about PTSD, its causes, and how counselling can be a crucial step towards healing. At PLACE2TALK Counselling, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery and well-being.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. This could include events such as military combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist attacks, or personal assaults like rape or domestic violence. PTSD is characterised by intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to the experience that persist long after the traumatic event has ended.
Symptoms of PTSD
Individuals with PTSD may experience a variety of symptoms that can be categorised into four main types:
- Intrusive Memories:
- Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event.
- Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks).
- Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event.
- Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event.
- Avoidance:
- Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.
- Avoiding places, activities, or people that remind you of the traumatic event.
- Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood:
- Negative thoughts about yourself, other people, or the world.
- Hopelessness about the future.
- Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event.
- Difficulty maintaining close relationships.
- Feeling detached from family and friends.
- Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
- Feeling emotionally numb.
- Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions:
- Being easily startled or frightened.
- Always being on guard for danger.
- Self-destructive behaviour, such as drinking too much or driving too fast.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behaviour.
- Overwhelming guilt or shame.
Causes of PTSD
From a mental health perspective, several factors can contribute to the development of PTSD:
- Childhood Experiences: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence, can significantly increase the risk of developing PTSD later in life.
- Trauma: Experiencing or witnessing traumatic events, whether a single incident or prolonged exposure to trauma, can lead to PTSD. This includes combat exposure, serious accidents, natural disasters, and assaults.
- Mental Health History: A history of mental health issues such as anxiety or depression can make an individual more susceptible to developing PTSD after a traumatic event.
- Genetics and Biological Factors: There is some evidence to suggest that individuals with a family history of PTSD or other mental health conditions may be more likely to develop PTSD themselves.
Complex PTSD
In addition to PTSD, it's important to recognise Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), which arises from prolonged or repeated trauma, often during childhood. This form of PTSD includes many of the symptoms of PTSD but also encompasses additional symptoms such as difficulty regulating emotions, a negative self-view, and challenges in relationships. We'll delve deeper into Complex PTSD in an upcoming blog.
The Benefits of Counselling
Counselling can be a transformative process for those dealing with PTSD. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Understanding and Processing Your Traumatic Experience: Counselling provides a safe space to explore and make sense of traumatic experiences, helping individuals process and integrate these memories in a way that reduces their emotional impact.
- Developing Coping Strategies: Counsellors can teach practical skills and techniques to manage symptoms of PTSD, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and grounding exercises.
- Improving Relationships: Counselling can help individuals rebuild trust and improve their relationships with others by addressing issues related to attachment and emotional regulation.
- Building Resilience: Through therapy, individuals can develop a stronger sense of self and resilience, enabling them to cope more effectively with future challenges.
Take the First Step Towards Healing
I understand the profound impact that PTSD can have on your life. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, don't hesitate to reach out. Contact me today to book an intro call and take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.
For more information or to book a session, visit PLACE2TALK Counselling.
