Experiences involving a traumatic event leave those involved with overwhelming and frightening emotions as the mind and the body attempts to make sense of what happened. Most people manage to process their emotions and return to a normal life. In some cases, people remain in psychologial shock, unable to disconnect their memory of the event with their emotions – also known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
What are the Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Almost everyone involved in a traumatic event experiences at least some of the symptoms of PTSD, including bad dreams, fear and numbness. They find it difficult to stop thinking about the event and it’s consequences. These symptoms are short-lived for most people and tend to gradually go away after several days or weeks.
However, with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder the symptoms do not decrease and may get worse in the hours or days following a traumatic event. In some cases, people may not feel the symptoms for weeks, months, or even years after the traumatic event.
Everyone experiences PTSD slightly differently, but there are three main types of symptoms:
Re-experiencing the traumatic event
Avoidance and emotional numbing
Increased arousal
In addition, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder may include symptoms of anger, guilt, self-blame and shame which can lead to substance abuse, depression and feeling of mistrust or alienation.
Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
If you are concerned you or a loved one may have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), you should seek professional help as soon as possible. PTSD is easier to overcome when treatment is sought early – before symptoms get worse. Most importantly, PTSD is very difficult to defeat without support and guidance of a professional.
Learn more in this video about how Neurofeedback and EMDR therapy can be used to treat PTSD
Southwest Neurofeedback provides treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by providing Neurofeedback and EMDR therapy. These forms of therapy address the source of the PTSD – brain wave activity stuck in a disrupted pattern due to the traumatic experience – and is helpful in providing relief of PTSD symptoms including sleep problems, pain, irritability and anger.
Please contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss treatment options for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.