Information about trauma and PTSD, including their symptoms, potential treatments, useful tips you can try now and into the future, and how to seek professional help.
Conditions
Let’s talk about trauma and PTSD
Overview
PTSD and trauma are more than just bad memories; they’re a lingering impact of a distressing event that can disrupt your life. Imagine feeling like you’re reliving a traumatic event over and over or constantly being on high alert. Symptoms range from flashbacks to emotional numbness. Understanding PTSD and trauma is the first step to managing them.
Symptoms
Signs to watch
PTSD symptoms can vary greatly among individuals. Some may experience a few symptoms, while others may experience many. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose PTSD.
Intrusive Memories
Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event, including flashbacks and nightmares.
Avoidance
Avoiding places, people, or activities that remind you of the traumatic event.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood
Feelings of hopelessness, negative thoughts about oneself or others, and difficulty maintaining close relationships.
Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions
Being easily startled, feeling tense or on edge, and having difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Emotional Numbness
Feeling detached from others and losing interest in activities once enjoyed.
Treatments
What Works: Treatments with Backup
What actually helps? Think of therapy sessions that help process and make sense of the traumatic event such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and sometimes medications can help. Each person’s treatment plan might be a bit different, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s about finding what works best for you.
Tips & Tricks
Try for today
Let’s focus on what you can do right now, manageable and simple strategies that can help you navigate through the day. Here are some suggestions for “Try for today”:
Tips & Tricks
Try for tomorrow
Now, let’s focus on what you can do to grow and get better. Here we share some proactive strategies and resources that can help you not just survive, but thrive, as you journey towards managing PTSD/trauma.
Seek Help
When to seek professional help
If your PTSD symptoms persist for an extended period or begin to interfere with your daily life and activities, it may be time to seek professional help. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, are trained to diagnose and treat PTSD. They can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, there’s no shame in reaching out for support – it’s a crucial step towards recovery.
Dr Sarah Herniman
Clinical Psychologist
Sarah is an AHPRA-registered Clinical Psychologist, and is dedicated to helping individuals lead fulfilling lives. Learn more about Dr Sarah
