Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder develops in some people who have experienced or witnessed a shocking, dangerous, or life-threatening event. While it is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic experience, most people recover from initial symptoms over time. Those who continue to experience problems for months or years may be diagnosed with PTSD. The condition affects approximately 6 percent of the U.S. population at some point in their lives, with women being twice as likely to develop it as men. PTSD can develop at any age, and the trauma does not have to involve direct physical harm. Witnessing an event, learning about trauma that happened to a close friend or family member, or repeated exposure to traumatic details can all trigger the condition. Professional treatment is highly effective, and recovery is possible.
Signs & Symptoms
Recognizing the signs and symptoms is the first step toward getting help
Warning Signs
Avoiding people, places, or situations that are reminders of the traumatic event
Becoming emotionally numb or detached from friends and family
Sudden outbursts of anger or irritability that seem disproportionate to the situation
Hypervigilance and being constantly on guard for potential threats
Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behavior including substance misuse
Common Symptoms
Intrusive, unwanted memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event that feel as if the trauma is happening again
Recurring nightmares or disturbing dreams related to the trauma
Severe emotional distress or physical reactions when exposed to reminders of the event
Persistent negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world
Difficulty experiencing positive emotions such as happiness, satisfaction, or love
Trouble concentrating, sleeping, or completing everyday tasks
Exaggerated startle response to sudden noises or unexpected movements
What Causes PTSD?
Exposure to combat, military operations, or wartime violence is one of the most recognized causes of PTSD, particularly among veterans
Physical or sexual assault, domestic violence, childhood abuse, or neglect can cause lasting psychological trauma
Serious accidents such as car crashes, workplace incidents, or natural disasters including hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods
Witnessing violent death, serious injury, or the aftermath of a traumatic event, including first responders and medical professionals
Complex trauma from prolonged exposure to abuse, captivity, human trafficking, or chronic domestic violence
Treatment Options
Evidence-based approaches that our licensed therapists use to help you heal
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR uses guided eye movements to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories. It reduces the emotional intensity of traumatic recall and is one of the most effective evidence-based treatments for PTSD.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT helps you examine and change unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma. Through structured sessions, you learn to develop a more balanced understanding of what happened and its impact on your life.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)
PE gradually and safely exposes you to trauma-related memories and situations you have been avoiding. Over time, this reduces the power these memories hold and decreases avoidance behaviors.
Trauma-Focused CBT
A specialized form of cognitive behavioral therapy that addresses the specific thought patterns, behaviors, and emotions connected to traumatic experiences.
Group Therapy and Peer Support
Connecting with others who have experienced similar traumas can reduce feelings of isolation, provide validation, and offer practical coping strategies in a supportive environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after a traumatic event can PTSD develop?
PTSD symptoms typically begin within three months of a traumatic event, but they can also appear months or even years later. If symptoms persist for more than one month and cause significant distress or impairment, a PTSD diagnosis may be appropriate. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Can PTSD affect someone who did not directly experience the trauma?
Yes. PTSD can develop in people who witnessed a traumatic event, learned that a close friend or family member experienced trauma, or were repeatedly exposed to distressing details of traumatic events, such as first responders, journalists, or healthcare workers.
What is the difference between PTSD and acute stress disorder?
Acute stress disorder involves similar symptoms but occurs within the first month after a traumatic event. If symptoms persist beyond one month, the diagnosis may shift to PTSD. Not everyone who experiences acute stress disorder will go on to develop PTSD.
Is EMDR effective for PTSD?
Yes. EMDR is one of the most well-researched and effective treatments for PTSD. It is recommended by the World Health Organization, the American Psychological Association, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many people experience significant improvement in as few as six to twelve sessions.
Can children develop PTSD?
Yes, children and adolescents can develop PTSD following traumatic experiences. Their symptoms may manifest differently than in adults, including regression to earlier behaviors, increased clinginess, new fears, or acting out the trauma through play. Specialized child-focused trauma therapy is available and effective.
Does PTSD ever go away completely?
Many people achieve full recovery from PTSD with proper treatment. While some individuals may occasionally experience mild symptoms during stressful periods, professional therapy equips you with tools to manage these effectively. The goal of treatment is to restore your ability to live a full, meaningful life.
