Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
by James Cowart, Ph.D.
Sometimes the emotional effects of a dangerous or threatening incident can be worse than the physical effects. One such example is an anxiety disorder called Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to published reports, PTSD affects at least 8% of the population in the United States. Of those who have experienced a trauma (E.G., rape, certain combat experiences, car accidents, muggings, etc.) the percentage is much higher. Almost everyone has some symptoms of heightened stress immediately following a trauma, but over time the symptoms often diminish. However, those who suffer with PTSD get little to no relief from the passage of time. Those who suffer with PTSD still have strong symptoms of stress decades after the original trauma and that fact is captured in the name: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
The primary symptoms of PTSD include (1) recurrent and intrusive memories and thoughts about the trauma that are very distressing. (This also includes dreams, nightmares and re-experiencing trauma memories (flashbacks). (2) persistent attempts to avoid thoughts, memories, flashbacks, nightmares or situations that might trigger memories, accompanied by a detachment from others and an emotional numbing and (3) a chronic level of increased emotional arousal as reflected by an exaggerated startle response, difficulty falling asleep or going back to sleep, irritability, trouble concentrating and hyper-vigilance.
Although the effects of chronic PTSD can be devastating (E.G., leading to chronic depression, alcoholism, or other substance abuse, as well as relationship problems) there are treatments for this disorder. Treatment of PTSD may include psychotherapy and medication. The Expert Consensus Guidelines (1999) suggest that Cognitive-behavioral therapy, that also includes exposure to the traumatic memories in a safe environment, is an effective type of psychotherapy for PTSD. An individual who has had some of the above symptoms for more than a month may have PTSD and should be evaluated by an experienced mental health professional that is familiar with the assessment and treatment of this anxiety disorder.