Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health issue caused by experiencing or witnessing a distressing event. Some of these incidences include a terrorist attack, war, sexual violence, a loved one’s death, and a tragic accident. People suffering from this condition may find it challenging to adjust to their everyday life for some time, but the situation can improve if they get support. In some cases, the symptoms of PTSD may be so severe that they affect mental health and cause suicidal thoughts. Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston provides various PTSD treatment options to help you cope with traumatic memories. To learn more, reach out to our team today at 866.516.8356.
Signs of PTSD
While most people may experience anxiety and distress after a tragic event, not all will develop PTSD. The symptoms of this condition often begin a few months or even years after the triggering experience. Moreover, they have to last for a prolonged period, such as a month, and interfere with everyday life to identify as PTSD. One of the most common signs of this condition is experiencing recurrent memories of the traumatic event. A patient can also have flashbacks and nightmares, then feel bothered by things that remind them of the incident.
PTSD can influence avoiding conversations about the event to prevent upsetting memories. One may also stay away from people and specific places associated with the trauma, such as a road where an accident occurred.
Besides that, the condition can affect mental health, leading to mood swings and extreme negative thoughts. It can also cause guilt, especially if one thinks they could prevent the incident from happening. This feeling may influence the patient to isolate themselves and avoid having a close relationship with others affected by the event. Other signs of PTSD include trouble sleeping, increased irritability, and using drugs to avoid negative feelings.
PTSD Treatment Options
Getting PTSD treatment can allow a patient to come to terms with the tragic event and give them a sense of control over their life. When looking for help, it is vital to consider physicians that specialize in trauma therapy. These specialists mainly use various treatments and medications to reduce the adverse effects of trauma on mental health. For example, they can use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients identify how their guilt impacts relationships and social life.
The therapist may also use eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) to treat PTSD. This type of trauma therapy involves guided eye movements that can help process bad memories and develop new ways to deal with them. Another commonly used treatment is exposure therapy, which allows patients to face memories and situations that cause fear and stress. This method allows coping with the triggers and reduces the nightmares and flashbacks caused by the event. Other treatments for PTSD are:
- Antidepressants
- Meditation therapy
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Prazosin
How to Cope with PTSD
Learning how to cope with PTSD can prevent adverse effects like using drugs to numb emotions. While it is essential to seek help from a mental health treatment professional, there are some techniques you can use to cope with the condition. For example, resting and eating a healthy diet can regulate your moods and reduce stress. It is also vital to avoid nicotine and drinks that contain caffeine as they can increase anxiety. More ways to deal with PTSD include:
- Learning more about the condition and treatment options
- Talking to loved ones about your feelings
- Following a treatment plan as needed
- Joining a support group
Quality PTSD Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Seeking PTSD treatment can improve your mental health and help you learn how to cope with the trauma. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we provide various therapies to help you deal with PTSD and any associated drug addiction. Our physicians will also educate you on alternative ways to deal with the trauma instead of using drugs. We offer a range of detox services, including:
Contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston today at 866.516.8356 for quality detox and mental health treatment services.
