PTSD

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

PTSD is a mental health condition that may develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. PTSD can be triggered by events such as physical or sexual assault, military combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, or emotional abuse. 

While it’s normal to feel shaken or distressed after trauma, PTSD occurs when those feelings persist and interfere with daily life for weeks, months, or even years.

What are the signs of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but common signs include:

• Intrusive thoughts: repeated, unwanted memories, flashbacks, or nightmares about the event
• Avoidance: steering clear of people, places, or conversations that remind you of the trauma
• Negative mood and thinking: feelings of hopelessness, detachment, guilt, or difficulty experiencing positive emotions
• Heightened arousal: being easily startled, feeling “on edge,” having trouble sleeping, or experiencing angry outbursts

These symptoms can affect relationships, work performance, and overall well-being if left untreated.

What causes PTSD?

PTSD stems from exposure to trauma, but not everyone who experiences trauma develops it. Factors that may increase the risk include the severity or duration of the trauma, lack of social support afterward, a history of prior trauma, or underlying mental health conditions. 

Biological factors, such as changes in brain chemistry and stress response, also play a role.

How is PTSD treated?

At Hope & Resilience Psychiatry Services, Henry offers a holistic approach to PTSD treatment, addressing your mind, body, and emotional well-being. Common components include:

Therapy

Trauma-focused therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy, or EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) help process and reframe traumatic memories.

Medication

Your provider may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help manage your mood, sleep, and arousal symptoms.

Lifestyle support

You can support your healing by practicing mindfulness, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine.

Social connection

Support groups or family involvement can reduce isolation and build emotional strength.

Telehealth access

Virtual sessions with your provider offer privacy, flexibility, and consistency in care.

Henry tailors treatment to your needs to help you move forward with strength and support.

If you or a loved one shows signs of PTSD, reach out to Hope & Resilience Psychiatry Services, PLLC today. Call or use the online booking feature to schedule an in-person or telehealth visit.