Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can make survivors feel trapped. Stuck inside memories of the distressing events they endured in the past. This feeling of being stuck can sometimes lead individuals experiencing PTSD to turn to substance use in order to cope. Dependency can then lead to addiction and an even more complicated struggle through trauma and addiction.
Fortunately, there is hope. At The Right Step Hill Country, our team specializes in treating co-occurring disorders, and helps you overcome trauma and substance use. There is a way to move forward, and you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to our team at 1.844.675.1628 and find out more about our trauma therapy program.
What Do the Symptoms of PTSD Feel Like?
Not all PTSD symptoms are the same for everyone, but there are some hallmarks. Some of the most common PTSD symptoms include:
- Intrusive recollections – People living with PTSD have memories of the traumatic experiences that arise seemingly out of nowhere. They may be intense and feel like they’re reliving the traumatic event all over again. These memories might also manifest as nightmares.
- Avoidance – People with PTSD often avoid talking or thinking about the traumatic event. Similarly, they may try not to be in places, take part in activities, or see specific people who trigger trauma memories.
- Negative shifts in mood and cognition – Overarching changes can occur in the mental and emotional life of someone with PTSD. They may, for instance, carry on very negative self-talk, feel hopeless, experience memory problems, feel detached or struggle in relationships, lack interest in activities that once brought joy, or feel emotionally numb.
- Physiological changes – PTSD is related to nervous system function and the body’s fight, flight, or freeze stress response. For example, even a non-threatening situation can trigger a sense of imminent danger, leading to physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, sweating, or hypervigilance. Over time, this chronic state of “activation” of the nervous system can contribute to both emotional and physical exhaustion.
It should be noted that children with PTSD, especially those six or younger, may display unique symptoms, including reenacting traumatic events through play or art, or having frightening dreams that seem representative of the trauma.
What Treatments Can I Seek If I’ve Identified Signs of PTSD?
If you believe you’re experiencing PTSD symptoms, getting professional support is essential for your healing. PTSD treatment can look in various ways, depending on your needs. A few of the most effective approaches include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
This form of talk therapy teaches clients to identify their self-defeating thoughts, especially when they are cyclic. Once identified, they learn to replace these negative cognitions with more positive statements. This builds a greater capacity for self-compassion and self-regulation.
Exposure Therapy
In this behavioral technique, clients gradually face situations and recollections of past trauma, within the safety of the therapeutic context. This can be especially effective in dealing with nightmares and flashbacks. The key is for the client and therapist to communicate and make adjustments as needed as the client confronts their trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
Similar to exposure therapy, EMDR allows a client to verbally revisit a past trauma within the safety of the therapy session. While doing this, a trained therapist administers bilateral stimulation, using techniques such as guided eye movements, taps, or sounds to activate both hemispheres of the brain while the client focuses on the traumatic memory. In turn, this stimulates more balanced input from the emotional right hemisphere and more logical left hemisphere.
Holistic Interventions
Mounting research suggests that mind-body practices such as yoga, meditation, and dance can aid trauma recovery. By engaging in coherent, empowering physical movement, the client’s nervous system is able to process the stored effects of trauma. Moreover, they begin to integrate healthy new nervous system patterns and build greater flexibility of response.
Frequently Asked Questions About PTSD
How does PTSD develop?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events can include accidents, natural disasters, abuse, violence, combat, or any situation that causes intense fear, helplessness, or distress. PTSD affects the way individuals process and respond to these experiences, often causing symptoms like flashbacks, avoidance, and heightened anxiety.
How is PTSD diagnosed?
PTSD is diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional through a comprehensive evaluation. They’ll review your symptoms, how long you’ve experienced them, and how they affect your daily life. For a diagnosis, symptoms must persist for longer than one month and cause significant distress or impairment in social, work, or personal relationships. It’s important to reach out to a professional if you suspect you or a loved one may have PTSD.
Can PTSD be cured?
While there isn’t a definitive “cure” for PTSD, it is highly treatable. With the right combination of therapy, support, and self-care, many individuals experience significant relief from symptoms and regain a sense of control in their lives. Treatment like cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, and holistic approaches can foster healing and growth, creating a path toward lasting recovery.
What are the risk factors for developing PTSD?
Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD. However, certain factors may increase the likelihood, including:
- Experiencing intense or long-lasting trauma
- Having a history of mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety
- Lack of a strong support system after the trauma
- Experiencing repeated exposure to distressing events, such as first responders, military personnel, or people who have endured ongoing abuse
What should I do if I think I have PTSD?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it’s important to seek help from qualified professionals. Left untreated, PTSD can have a profound impact on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Reaching out for assistance is a courageous first step toward healing. At Hill Country, our compassionate team is here to help you find a treatment plan that works for you. You don’t have to deal with this alone—support is available.
Can children develop PTSD?
Yes. Like adults, children can develop PTSD after traumatic experiences. However, their symptoms may look different. They might reenact the trauma through play, have nightmares that represent the trauma, show signs of clinginess, or display changes in behavior like aggression or withdrawal. Early intervention with professional support can be incredibly effective in helping children process and heal.
By understanding PTSD and exploring your treatment options, you’re taking an essential step toward recovery. If you think you or someone you care about may have PTSD, don’t wait to seek support. Contact Hill Country today, and we’ll provide the compassionate guidance you need to move forward.
Find PTSD Treatment Today at Hill Country
PTSD gained significant attention because of the impact it’s had on military veterans over the past century. That said, many people undergo trauma in their lives, and PTSD is not just something that veterans or victims of violent crimes experience. PTSD symptoms can be brought on by neglect, bullying, witnessed violence, or variety of other distressing events. No matter what caused your trauma, you’re not alone. Hill Country is here to support you and equip you for the life you deserve to live.
For more information about symptoms of PTSD and trauma recovery, reach out to us online or call 1.844.675.1628 today.