Understanding PTSD
Fear is a part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which helps us avoid or respond to potential danger. People may experience a range of reactions after trauma, and most people recover from initial symptoms over time. However, those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. Anyone can develop PTSD at any age, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. This includes combat veterans and people who have experienced or witnessed a physical or sexual assault, abuse, an accident, a disaster, or other serious events. But not everyone with PTSD has been through a dangerous event themselves. Sometimes, learning that a friend or family member experienced trauma can cause PTSD.
Signs & Symptoms of PTSD
Symptoms of PTSD typically begin within three months of a traumatic event and persist for more than a month, significantly affecting daily life. People who have PTSD may feel stressed or frightened, even when they are not in danger. Common symptoms of people with PTSD include:
- Flashbacks to a traumatic event, including physical symptoms such as a racing heart or sweating
- Avoiding places, events, thoughts, or feelings associated with a traumatic event
- Feeling constantly on edge, easily startled, or having difficulty relaxing
- Persistent negative thoughts and emotions such as fear, guilt, or shame
- Intrusive thoughts or distressing memories related to trauma
These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, often co-occurring with other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety disorders.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat online at 988Lifeline.org.
In life-threatening situations, call 911.
Risk Factors for PTSD
Not everyone who lives through a dangerous event develops PTSD—many factors play a part. Some of these factors are present before the trauma; others become important during and after a traumatic event.
Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing PTSD include:
- Being exposed to previous traumatic experiences, particularly during childhood
- Getting hurt or seeing people hurt or killed
- Feeling horror, helplessness, or extreme fear
- Having little or no social support after the event
- Dealing with extra stress after the event, such as loss of a loved one, pain and injury, or loss of a job or home
- Having a personal or family history of mental illness or substance use
PTSD Treatment
For those experiencing PTSD symptoms, seeking support from a mental health professional is crucial. At Vitalize in Fresno, our experienced clinicians specialize in personalized care for PTSD. Common treatment options include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Exposure therapy
- Cognitive restructuring
- Group therapy
- Medication
If you think you or someone you know might have PTSD, reach out to our team to schedule an appointment with our clinicians. We’re here to create a personalized treatment plan that supports your well-being.
Note: The information on this page is provided in part by the National Institute of Mental Health. For more up-to-date information, click here.
