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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often thought of as a single condition, but it varies according to the nature of the trauma and how the brain processes it. Why is this worth mentioning? Just like you might treat food poisoning differently from the flu, the different types of PTSD require a tailored approach to get […]
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often thought of as a single condition, but it varies according to the nature of the trauma and how the brain processes it. Why is this worth mentioning? Just like you might treat food poisoning differently from the flu, the different types of PTSD require a tailored approach to get you on the mend. Recognizing the differences in PTSD types can help you better understand your symptoms and seek the right kind of trauma therapy.
Any case of PTSD can cause nightmares, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, etc., but the root cause could be anything from child abuse to active combat to a car accident. Thus, PTSD is generally categorized by symptom onset and duration. You might be dealing with:
Acute PTSD – Symptoms last less than three months, often following a single traumatic event.
Chronic PTSD – Symptoms persist beyond three months, typically from prolonged exposure to trauma.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) – Results from repeated trauma over time, often during childhood or in abusive relationships.
Dissociative PTSD – Involves symptoms like depersonalization and memory gaps.
Delayed-Onset PTSD – Symptoms emerge six months or more after the trauma.
Once you’ve been diagnosed, you can work toward developing strategies for safety and emotional regulation. Trauma-informed therapists use tools like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), cognitive processing therapy, and somatic work in PTSD treatment to address both the emotional and physical sides of trauma.
If you’re struggling with trauma-related symptoms and want to put the past behind you with PTSD treatment that’s tailored to your needs, you’re in the right place. Schedule a session today to begin trauma therapy designed for real healing. We can’t wait to meet you!
When someone lives through a traumatic event, they may begin experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares. If these symptoms worsen, interfere with the person’s daily routine, or persist for an extended period of time (months or years), it’s referred to as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This mental health condition is quite common—in fact, […]
When someone lives through a traumatic event, they may begin experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares. If these symptoms worsen, interfere with the person’s daily routine, or persist for an extended period of time (months or years), it’s referred to as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This mental health condition is quite common—in fact, according to statistics published by the National Center for PTSD, approximately 6% of the U.S. population will develop PTSD at some point during their lives.
Despite the prevalence of PTSD in today’s society, many people still don’t understand what it truly means to have this condition. Below are three common myths about PTSD that aren’t actually true.
Although PTSD is relatively common among members of the military, it can affect anyone who experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. For example, someone may develop PTSD after being abused, surviving a violent crime, living through a natural disaster, or working as a first responder.
While some people begin experiencing PTSD symptoms immediately after a traumatic event, others can go months or even years before they develop symptoms. And once symptoms do appear, they can come and go over time.
There are numerous treatments available that can help relieve the symptoms of PTSD. For example, someone with this condition may benefit from attending therapy, participating in support groups, and taking medication.
If you’ve been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder—or if you have a loved one who’s displaying the signs of this condition—it can be incredibly helpful to speak to a therapist who specializes in treating PTSD. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of the knowledgeable therapists on our team. We’ll be happy to tell you more about our practice and answer any questions you might have about our approach to PTSD treatment.
Vicarious trauma, also called secondary trauma, is a type of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that occurs when people absorb the emotional weight of others’ distress. First responders, therapists, healthcare workers, and caregivers are especially vulnerable, but anyone consistently exposed to others’ suffering can be affected. As with other forms of PTSD, understanding the root of […]
Vicarious trauma, also called secondary trauma, is a type of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that occurs when people absorb the emotional weight of others’ distress. First responders, therapists, healthcare workers, and caregivers are especially vulnerable, but anyone consistently exposed to others’ suffering can be affected. As with other forms of PTSD, understanding the root of the issue and getting appropriate help is critical.
Symptoms of vicarious trauma mirror those of other forms of PTSD, such as intrusive thoughts, heightened anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, or emotional numbness. Over time, these symptoms start to affect both personal and professional life.
Empathy is essential for those in a position of helping others, but continuous exposure to trauma can overwhelm emotional boundaries. Without an adequate strategy for dealing with these experiences, the brain and body can respond as though the trauma is personal.
Trauma therapy is a powerful tool for addressing vicarious trauma. Simply recognizing it as a real condition can address any feelings of shame or weakness. Practices like mindfulness, grounding exercises, and cognitive behavioral techniques can help. Additionally, it’s important to have a strong support system and prioritize self-care throughout your career.
Vicarious trauma is a serious concern, but recovery is possible thanks to trauma-informed mental health professionals who provide specialized therapy for caregivers and first responders. Are you in need of some extra support? Reach out today to learn how a trauma therapist from our team can help you!
