Beyond Survival: Understanding and Managing PTSD

What Causes PTSD?

PTSD can develop after you experience or witness a traumatic event. That can include an accident, the threat of death or serious injury, assault or abuse, a disaster, a life-threatening medical event, combat or repeated exposure to traumatic events at work.

Most people who experience trauma do not develop PTSD. There is no single reason one person develops it and another doesn’t. Past trauma, continued stress, the nature of the event and access to support can all affect your response. Whatever the cause, PTSD is never your fault.

What Are the Signs of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms can start immediately after an event or can show up months later. PTSD symptoms can affect you in several ways:

• Unwanted memories — You may experience nightmares, flashbacks or thoughts that make the event feel present again.
• Avoidance — You may avoid people, places, activities or conversations that remind you of what happened.
• Changes in thoughts and mood — You may feel guilt, shame, fear, anger or numbness. You may also lose interest in activities or feel distant from others.
• Feeling on guard — You may startle easily, watch for danger or have trouble with sleep and focus. Some people also become irritable or take unsafe risks.
• Easily startled
• Waking up in the middle of the night (night terrors)

A mental health professional can diagnose PTSD when symptoms last more than one month and interfere with your work, school, relationships or daily life. It’s important to remember that you do not have to wait to ask for help.

How Is PTSD Treated?

PTSD is treatable, and the right care can help you feel more like yourself again. Your provider will work with you to create a treatment plan based on your symptoms, overall health, personal needs and preferences. Treatment may include therapy, medication or both.

Therapy

Trauma-focused therapy helps you work with memories and beliefs linked to the event. Your therapist should explain each step and help you move at a safe, steady pace. Common approaches include:

• Trauma Focused Psychotherapy
• Cognitive processing therapy — Helps you recognize and challenge painful beliefs about the trauma.
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)— Uses guided eye movements or another type of stimulation as you process traumatic memories.
• Prolonged exposure therapy — Helps you gradually approach safe memories, feelings and situations you have avoided.

Medication

Certain antidepressants can reduce PTSD symptoms, such as anxiety, sadness and anger. Medication may take several weeks to help you feel better. Your provider can explain the possible benefits and side effects, then adjust your care as needed. Do not stop prescribed medicine without first speaking with your provider.

What Can Support Recovery?

Recovery does not mean you must forget what happened. It can mean that the trauma no longer controls your choices, relationships or sense of safety. Be patient with yourself. Progress may take time and it may not follow a straight path.

Professional treatment offers the strongest support toward getting your life back. These steps can also support your care:

• Create a simple routine for sleep, meals and daily tasks.
• Limit alcohol or drugs, which can make symptoms worse.
• Practice calming skills, such as slow breaths, prayer or a quiet walk.
• Set small, realistic goals and notice each step forward.
• Stay close to people who help you feel respected and safe.
• Try a peer support group as an addition to professional treatment.

“Recovery can look different for each person. The goal is not to erase the past, but to help you regain control, rebuild trust and make room for hope,” said Lawrence Ferber, PhD Director of Behavioral Health Central Intake Services at Catholic Health.

When Should You Ask for Help?

You do not need to wait until symptoms feel unbearable. Contact your primary care provider or mental health professional if your symptoms continue, get worse or make daily life hard. Early support can help you understand what you feel and can guide you toward the best next step.

If you have thoughts of suicide or feel that you may harm yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call or text the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24 hours a day.

Find PTSD Support on Long Island

Catholic Health behavioral health professionals can help you understand your symptoms and find care that fits your needs. Call our Central Intake line at (516) 705-3400, ext. 3230, to ask about services near you.