PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after witnessing or experiencing a deeply distressing event. It’s more than just feeling shaken up; PTSD can affect your thoughts, emotions, and sense of safety long after the danger has passed. The Committed to Recovery mental health team in Memphis, Tennessee, has expertise in PTSD. They provide understanding, compassion, excellent support, and effective treatment. To find relief and regain control of your life, contact Committed to Recovery today by phone or online to schedule an appointment.

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that can arise after living through or witnessing a traumatic event. It could include situations like military combat, physical or sexual assault, a serious accident, a natural disaster, or the sudden loss of a loved one. 

PTSD affects how the brain processes fear and stress, often leaving you feeling stuck in a state of hyperarousal or emotional numbness long after the danger has passed.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

There are four main categories of PTSD symptoms:

• Intrusive thoughts: unwanted memories, flashbacks, or nightmares that bring the trauma back vividly
• Avoidance: steering clear of places, people, or situations that serve as reminders of the trauma
• Negative changes in mood and thinking: feelings of hopelessness, emotional numbness, memory problems, or persistent guilt and shame
• Changes in physical and emotional reactions: being easily startled, feeling constantly on edge, difficulty sleeping, irritability, or angry outbursts

These symptoms can vary in intensity and may disrupt daily life, work, and relationships. PTSD can appear soon after a traumatic event or emerge months or even years later.

What causes PTSD?

PTSD develops as a result of overwhelming stress that exceeds the brain's ability to cope. While not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD, certain factors may increase the risk, such as a history of mental illness, lack of support, ongoing stress, or previous traumatic experiences. 

Genetics and brain chemistry also play a role in how someone processes traumatic events.

How is PTSD treated?

PTSD is treatable, and many people recover with proper care. Common treatments at Committed to Recovery include:

Psychotherapy

Evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) help you process trauma, reframe negative beliefs, and reduce distress.

Medication

Your provider may prescribe antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications to ease symptoms such as mood swings, depression, or sleep problems.

Support systems

Peer support, group therapy, and family involvement can also make a positive impact on your healing.

Your provider offers a personalized treatment plan, often combining therapy and medication to help you regain a sense of safety, control, and emotional well-being.

If you or a loved one has symptoms of PTSD, don’t delay getting help. Call Committed to Recovery to book an appointment today or use the convenient online scheduler.