PTSD: Causes, symptoms and ways to deal with post-traumatic stress disorder

Treatment for PTSD: Regular exercise can alleviate stress and improve mood, making it a beneficial component of PTSD management (Image: Canva)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it is most commonly associated with veterans and those who have seen combat, PTSD can affect anyone who has undergone a distressing experience. Understanding the symptoms and how to manage them is crucial for those affected and their loved ones.

Understanding PTSD

PTSD develops in some individuals who have lived through events such as natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist incidents, sudden deaths of loved ones, or personal assaults such as rape. These events can leave a lasting impact, significantly altering one’s mental health.

Symptoms of PTSD

The symptoms of PTSD can be categorised into four main types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions.

Intrusive memories

Flashbacks: Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again.

Nightmares: Disturbing dreams about the traumatic event.

Distressing memories: Unwanted and intrusive memories of the traumatic event.

Avoidance

Avoiding reminders: Steering clear of places, activities, or people that bring back memories of the traumatic event.

Emotional numbing: Shutting down emotionally to avoid dealing with feelings related to the trauma.

Negative changes in thinking and mood

Negative thoughts: Persistent and distorted beliefs about oneself or others.

Hopelessness: Feeling as though the future holds no hope.

Memory problems: Trouble remembering key aspects of the traumatic event.

Detached feelings: Feeling detached from family and friends.

Changes in physical and emotional reactions

Being easily startled: Increased sensitivity to surprises.

Self-destructive behaviour: Engaging in harmful activities such as substance abuse.

Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Irritability and anger: Experiencing outbursts of anger or irritability.

Dealing with PTSD

Managing PTSD effectively often requires a multifaceted approach, combining professional treatment with self-help strategies and support from loved ones.

Professional treatment

Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for PTSD. It helps individuals reframe negative thoughts and develop coping strategies.

Exposure therapy: This involves safely exposing individuals to the trauma they experienced in a controlled environment to help them process and reduce the fear associated with it.

EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) uses guided eye movements to help process traumatic memories.

Medication: Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help alleviate some PTSD symptoms.

Self-help strategies

Mindfulness and meditation: Practising mindfulness and meditation can help ground individuals and reduce the intensity of intrusive thoughts.

Physical activity: Regular exercise can alleviate stress and improve mood, making it a beneficial component of PTSD management.

Healthy lifestyle choices: A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and avoiding alcohol and drugs can have a positive impact on overall mental health.

Journaling: Writing about thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process emotions and experiences.

Support systems

Support groups: Joining a support group provides an opportunity to connect with others who understand what it’s like to live with PTSD.

Trusted friends and family: Having a reliable support network of friends and family can provide comfort and understanding.

Peer support: Engaging with others who have similar experiences can offer practical advice and emotional solidarity.