People experience and handle traumatic events differently, but for some of them, that traumatic experience can negatively impact well being, triggering stress for the rest of their lives. We know this as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
PTSD Counseling Haverford, PA
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
PTSD can be a result of any impactful negative event that you’ve experienced and that was not processed properly at that point in time. PTSD is an anxiety disorder. It triggers strong feelings and stress even in calm situations where there is no danger. PTSD is common among soldiers or anyone who has been exposed first hand to a traumatic event.
Examples of Situations that May Trigger PTSD
- If you ever lost a loved one
- If you experience a horrific accident
- If you witnessed harm to a loved one
- If you experience a pandemic (like COVID-19)
- If you live during a recession or experience economic weakness
- If you are a victim of rape, domestic violence or some other violent crime
Symptoms That You Have PTSD
- You relive unwelcoming memories that may seem as real as life
- You often feel anxious
- You experience distressing thoughts
- You experience nightmares on a regular basis
- You experience unpredictable and random emotions
- You experience physical symptoms such as chronic pain or fibromyalgia
- You have depression
- You feel helpless
- You feel of shame or self-blame
- Poor Concentration and attention
- The poor short term memory
- Paranoia
- Isolation from society
- You often feel uneasy
How to Help Loved Ones Who are Facing PTSD
If someone you care about or even love is facing a PTSD problem, the first thing to do is to give them your attention and make them feel that they are special to you. Tell them about how good life can be, and try to stay positive around them. Don’t let them discuss negative thoughts that may cause them a sudden wave of anxiety. Comfort them then tell them about PTSD counseling and therapists who can help them through their PTSD symptoms. Tell them not to try to fight PTSD on their own; remind them to seek professional help.
Treatment for PTSD
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT is an effective course of treatment that usually takes around 12-weeks. The first step is for the patient to open up about the traumatic event they experienced and explain how PTSD is affecting your life. The next step is to write in detail about the traumatic event. The therapist then discusses your input and provides feedback in the form of methods to deal with your PTSD in the future. This process is iterative, each therapy session building on the last.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET)
If you’re avoiding the idea of thinking about a traumatic event, Prolonged Exposure Therapy or PET will help you. During the process of PET treatment, your therapist will tell you effective breathing techniques to ease your anxiety problems. Later, they will help you make a list of thoughts and things which you’ve been avoiding and will train you to face them, slowly one by one. This therapy relies on your homework to gradually help you address and cope up with situations that cause you anxiety.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
The Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR Treatment requires that you concentrate on the traumatic event while you watch or listen to something your therapist is doing. This may be moving a hand, making some sound, etc. The goal of this exercise is to make you think of something positive and whenever you remember your trauma. If you concentrate on a small positive sound or movement you have the power to overpower anxiety caused by your trauma.
Medications
Also, there are various kinds of medications that may make your treatment process easier and more successful.
Why Choose Us For PTSD Counseling Haverford, PA
Choosing a therapist or counselor is just as important as your decision to seek help with your PTSD problem. We make sure that we make the process as easy as possible for you. If you are looking for a compassionate PTSD Therapist who provides counseling in Haverford, PA, please contact me.