PTSD

What causes PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs at any age and can affect anyone. This serious mental disorder develops if you experience trauma or witness a tragic event, which is why PTSD regularly affects military personnel and veterans. Even the sudden loss of a loved one can lead to PTSD. 

Whether or not you experience PTSD in these cases and how severe it becomes depends on certain risk factors. You’re more likely to struggle with PTSD if you have:

• Little social support 
• Childhood trauma issues
• Injuries after the traumatic event
• Personal history of mental illness or substance abuse

PTSD is also more likely to occur if you have added stress after a traumatic event, such as having to handle funeral arrangements after the unexpected loss of a spouse. 

When should I see a doctor for PTSD?

PTSD isn’t something you should ignore or try to manage on your own. Symptoms of PTSD typically begin within about three months of the incident, although in some cases, symptoms don’t evolve until years later. PTSD can lead to: 

• Frequent flashbacks
• Frightening thoughts
• Heart palpitations
• Night terrors

PTSD symptoms can become so severe, you can’t function normally on a day-to-day basis. Symptoms can even affect your job and put a strain on your personal relationships. Before your PTSD takes hold of you any further, contact Boston Neurobehavioral Associates to have an evaluation and get started on treatment. 

How is PTSD treated?

One of the most important components of a PTSD treatment plan is talk therapy (psychotherapy). This can be an individual session or a family session, or both, depending on your needs. Psychotherapy is designed to help you learn to cope with PTSD symptoms and manage them well to enhance your quality of life. 

To further help manage your PTSD symptoms, your provider at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates may recommend: 

• Antidepressant medications 
• Lifestyle changes, such as breaking up large tasks
• Exposure therapy (facing and controlling your fear)
• Cognitive restructuring and learning to make sense of bad memories

It’s also important to set realistic goals for yourself because PTSD isn’t curable overnight. Remember to take care of yourself and reach out to a loved one or your provider at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates when you need to have a talk. 

Before struggling with PTSD on your own another day, contact Boston Neurobehavioral Associates to get the help you deserve. Book your PTSD evaluation online or call any office to schedule.