At Milestones Ranch, we often treat individuals who suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) using a variety of evidence-based theories such as Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Seeking Safety, and Dialectical Behavior therapy. When someone has PTSD, it can be challenging for the family. The person with PTSD may act differently and anger easily. He or she may not want to participate in the life and activities you formerly enjoyed together.
You may feel alarmed and frustrated about the changes you see in yourself, your loved one and your relationships. You also may feel angry about what’s happening to your family, or wonder if things will ever return to normal. These feelings and worries are common in people who have PTSD, or have a family member with PTSD. It is important to learn about PTSD so you can understand the causes, effective treatment, and the supportive resources available.
What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a Trauma-Related Disorder that can occur after one suffers through a traumatic event. A traumatic event is actual or threatened trauma that can be either directly experienced or witnessed. During this type of event, physical integrity is either threatened or perceived to be threatened. There is the experience of complete loss of control over what is happening. Anyone who endures or witnesses a life-threatening event can develop PTSD. These events can include:
- Combat or military exposure
- Child or adult sexual or physical abuse
- Terrorist attacks
- Sexual or physical assault
- Being a victim of a crime
- Serious accidents
- Natural disasters, such as a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or earthquake.
After the event, one may feel scared, confused, in shock or angry. If these feelings continue or worsen, PTSD may have developed. These symptoms are emotionally, relationally, and occupationally disruptive, making it difficult to function.
How does PTSD develop?
All people with PTSD have survived a traumatic event that caused them to fear for their lives, witness horrors, and feel helpless. Strong emotions caused by the event create changes in the brain that may result in PTSD. Most people who endure or witness a traumatic event have some initial symptoms. Yet only some will develop PTSD. It is unclear why some develop PTSD and others don’t. The onset of PTSD depends on many factors.
We hope the information contained in this article has been of help to you. Please feel free to contact us at Milestones Ranch Malibu with any questions or comments you may have. Call: (800) 791-6859 for assistance.