Raising awareness about mental illness is key in combating the stigma that often keeps individuals from seeking help. The more we understand different mental illnesses, the less we fall for stereotypes and misconceptions. That’s why June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. This trauma disorder impacts roughly 6 in every 100 adults in the US population.1 But with proper treatment, there is hope to live a full life despite your trauma.
Let’s discuss PTSD and the role of medication in treatment in today’s blog.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a trauma-based mental health disorder in which individuals who experienced or witnessed a traumatic event have long-term symptoms of trauma. When someone experiences trauma, it can literally rewire the brain and cognitive functions. The mind believes itself to still be in danger due to the trauma and acts on survival mode, even when there is no present danger. Symptoms include:
- Flashbacks in which individuals relive their trauma
- Sudden alterations in mood
- Agitation and irritation
- Avoidance of things that remind them of their trauma
- Acute stress and anxiety
- Feelings of depression and hopelessness
PTSD is often a comorbidity behind depression and substance use disorders. Individuals who experience PTSD may use substances to numb the emotional pain and avoid their trauma, leading to dependence.
Types of PTSD
There are three main types of PTSD: acute stress disorder, PTSD, and complicated PTSD (C-PTSD). Acute stress disorder occurs within a month after a traumatic event. With an acute stress disorder, the natural stress response is elongated for weeks at a time and individuals experience symptoms of PTSD. However, these symptoms may begin to lessen after about four weeks.
If symptoms last longer than four weeks, you may be diagnosed with uncomplicated PTSD. This is a chronic stress disorder that can last for years. C-PTSD, on the other hand, is often the result of multiple traumas. Those who experienced domestic violence or repeated trauma may be diagnosed with C-PTSD. Both complex PTSD and C-PTSD, as well as acute stress disorder, can be treated with therapy and medication.
Misconceptions About PTSD
Misconceptions about PTSD can make it difficult for individuals who suffer from it to recognize symptoms in themselves, as well as be treated fairly in their social settings. It’s important to know what misconceptions exist and how to dispel them. Some of the most common are:
“I Can’t Have PTSD Because What I Went Through Wasn’t ‘That Bad’”
Portrayals of PTSD that we see in media often come from extreme cases: war veterans, rape victims, or characters whose parents were murdered in front of them at a young age. While these cases do exist in real life, it’s important to understand that trauma looks different for everyone. Just because your trauma wasn’t extremely violent does not mean that it didn’t exist.
Additionally, as people, we tend to rationalize and diminish our own pain. If your parents emotionally abused you all throughout your childhood, it might take time to realize that behavior wasn’t normal or acceptable. Some people can experience PTSD from school bullying, car accidents, loss of a loved one, or any form of abuse — not just physical.
“PTSD Is All In Your Head. Just Get Over it.”
PTSD has been recognized as a valid mental health disorder for decades. For those who suffer from PTSD, trauma is not something they can simply “get over.” PTSD keeps them locked in the moment of their trauma, frozen in survival mode which becomes increasingly disruptive to their quality of life. Through treatment, these symptoms can be managed and reduced so hat patients can move forward with their lives.
“PTSD Is a Sign of Weakness”
PTSD is a cognitive rewiring in the brain due to trauma. Although it doesn’t occur after every trauma, it is a natural response to something terrible that happened to you. It is not an indictment on your character, and certainly not a sign of weakness. Some of the strongest people you know may suffer from PTSD. When individuals with PTSD seem more sensitive or vulnerable, it is not because they are weaker than others but rather that they have more on their plate.
The Role of Medication in PTSD Treatment
There are two primary treatments for PTSD: therapy and medication management. While therapy can help patients learn coping skills to effectively manage their symptoms of PTSD, medication helps to balance the chemicals in your brain to reduce symptoms and make them more manageable. Some patients may prefer medication over therapy or the opposite. Many will opt for therapy in conjunction with medication.
What Medications Are Prescribed For PTSD?
The most common medications prescribed for PTSD are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). These medications are typically prescribed to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. They work by increasing the production of serotonin, which can then block production of cortisol — the stress hormone. More serotonin can also enhance dopamine production to help boost your mood. Norepinephrine can also enhance cognitive function and regulate stress reactions.
If you’re suffering from PTSD, Rivia Mind can help you manage your symptoms so that your condition no longer controls your life. Contact us today to learn more about our mental health treatments or to find a provider.
Resources:
- How Common is PTSD in Adults? – PTSD: National Center for PTSD
