Consider These Treatment Options for PTSD

Millions of Americans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a disorder that causes extreme anxiety and other symptoms that can affect virtually every aspect of your life. Fortunately, PTSD can be treated; the key is working with a healthcare provider experienced in PTSD treatment. 

At Cora Health Solutions, Betsy Serrano, PMHNP, uses a patient-centered approach to PTSD treatment, focusing on individual symptoms to help patients regain control over their lives. Here, learn about treatment options that can help you manage your PTSD and improve your overall quality of life.

PTSD: Understanding the basics

PTSD happens when exposure to a traumatic event triggers extreme fear reactions that persist long after the event is over. While everyone experiences fear or anxiety from time to time, PTSD causes reactions that are far more severe and that persist for a long time — sometimes for years.

PTSD treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. The American Psychiatric Association established criteria to aid in diagnosing PTSD and differentiating it from other issues, like anxiety disorders. 

According to those criteria, following a traumatic event, you must develop specific symptoms, such as: 

• Recurrent flashbacks or nightmares
• Intrusive thoughts or memories
• Avoiding situations that remind you of the traumatic event
• Decreased interest in pleasurable activities
• Feelings of intense fear, anxiety, guilt, or shame
• Irritability or other negative mood or behavior changes
• Self-destructive behaviors
• Feelings of detachment
• Difficulty focusing or reasoning

In addition, you need to have experienced symptoms for at least a month and those symptoms must be severe enough to interfere with regular activities.

It’s tempting to think that PTSD symptoms only happen right after a traumatic exposure, but actually, it can be months or even years before symptoms occur. What’s more, you can develop PTSD from both direct and indirect exposure to a traumatic event.

Treating PTSD

Like depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, PTSD is complex, frequently requiring a “multi-prong” approach consisting of more than one type of therapy. We offer several options, so we can find the right combination for you.

“Talk” therapy

Also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy involves an array of techniques to help you identify the roots of your PTSD, learn new coping strategies, and “unlearn” negative thought patterns and behaviors. Some techniques, like cognitive behavioral therapy, use homework assignments to help you apply strategies in real-life situations.

Medication

Medications frequently play an important role in PTSD treatment, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression while also helping to make talk therapy more effective. Regular check-ins ensure your dosing stays on track as your needs change throughout treatment.

Supportive therapies

Supportive therapies include things like group therapy or support groups — both in person and online. Sharing your experiences with others who are dealing with similar issues can be a powerful way to avoid feelings of isolation, reduce feelings of shame and guilt, and build self-confidence.

Lifestyle modifications

Like physical health issues, mental health disorders benefit from a healthy lifestyle, including focusing on healthy foods, getting regular physical activity, improving sleep habits, and learning to manage stress. These modifications give you the foundation you need to improve your mental and physical health while enjoying a happier, more productive life.

PTSD treatments that work for you

PTSD can wreak havoc on your health and well-being, but a custom treatment plan can definitely help. To learn more about PTSD therapies, call 602-907-5300 or book an appointment online with Cora Health Solutions in the Biltmore area of Phoenix, Arizona,  today.