Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder that typically appears after exposure to a traumatizing, overwhelming or terrifying event. Everyone experiences things differently, so whether it’s something like a death in the family or facing a natural disaster, trauma is felt so deeply that the sufferer develops an anxiety disorder. Some common events that can trigger PTSD include: violent attacks such as a rape or mugging, exposure to physical, imprisonment, terrorism, domestic, sexual or psychological abuse, experience with natural disasters, automobile accidents or even military combat. PTSD can be extremely disabling and grows progressively worse if left untreated.
While post-traumatic stress disorder often occurs in members of the military or law enforcement, everyday people who are victims of physical, emotional and sexual abuse are also at risk to develop PTSD. Things like burglaries and automobile accidents can trigger the development of post-traumatic stress disorder. In some cases, PTSD doesn’t just affect the individual that faced the traumatic event; it can develop in the family members of victims. Some reports even show that witnessing a traumatizing event on television (such as the September 11th terrorist attacks) can trigger some symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Traumatic events are a horrible reality for many people, and they may require professional help in order to effectively process the event and move on with their lives. Accepting treatment for PTSD isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s just the beginning of the journey towards recovery. Brookhaven understand that psychological, genetic, physical and social factors all affect PTSD and the recovery process.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment Options
At Brookhaven Hospital, individuals receive a variety of inpatient residential and outpatient treatment for dealing with PTSD. By providing an understanding and compassionate environment with truly qualified professionals, Brookhaven offers hope and recovery for individuals dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event.
Some symptoms of PTSD include:
- Repeated flashbacks or nightmares of the traumatic event
- Emotional numbness
- Being easily startled
- Feeling hyper-aware of surroundings
- Poor sleeping patterns
- Avoidance of people, places or events that are similar to the traumatic event
- Feelings of despair and hopelessness
- Lack of interest in everyday activities
- Emotional disconnection or the inability to express emotion
- Irritability or outbursts of anger
No matter how long a traumatic event lasted or how long ago it occured, it can create a lifetime of pain and suffering for someone with post-traumatic stress disorder. If you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD, look for help and contact Brookhaven Hospital at 1-888-298-4673.