- What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
- How Is PTSD Treated?
- What Are the Causes and Symptoms of PTSD?
- What Are the Risk Factors for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
- Serenity Mental Health Centers | Lehi Reviews
- How Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosed?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Take Back Control
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
- Related Posts
What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can arise following a traumatic event or series of events, with military service often associated with its occurrence. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, our Lehi, UT trauma therapists specialize in assisting individuals and their loved ones in navigating and managing PTSD. Our patients receive guidance in identifying triggers and developing strategies to effectively manage them. With trauma therapy and tailored solutions, healing can begin.
How Is PTSD Treated?
Various treatment options exist for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Medications like antidepressants can alleviate symptoms, while talk therapy is commonly suggested by mainstream facilities. Understanding triggers and implementing coping strategies is essential as the initial step to treatment. Our recommended PTSD treatment approaches may involve medication, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), ketamine therapy, or a combination thereof. These methods are widely effective and safely diminish symptoms in many patients. Regardless of the chosen treatment method, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect anyone, manifesting either shortly after a traumatic event or even years later. Common triggers for PTSD include:
- Car accidents
- The death of a loved one
- Domestic abuse
- Natural disasters
- Military combat
The symptoms of PTSD can vary widely and may come and go over time. Frequently experienced symptoms include:
- Avoiding places or situations that evoke memories of the trauma
- Increased startle response
- Difficulty sleeping
- Episodes of anger or irritability
- Trouble recalling details of the traumatic event
- Flashbacks or distressing dreams related to the event
What Are the Risk Factors for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
PTSD can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. However, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing PTSD. These risk factors include:
- Previous exposure to trauma: Experiencing or witnessing events like physical assault, accidents, combat, or natural disasters
- Chronic or repeated trauma: Ongoing stress from abusive relationships, dangerous environments, or repeated traumatic events
- Pre-existing mental health conditions: Anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders can heighten the risk of developing PTSD
- High-risk professions: Jobs that expose individuals to trauma regularly, such as in the military, emergency services, or healthcare
- Family history of mental health disorders: A genetic predisposition to mental health issues, like anxiety or depression, may increase the risk
- Severe or prolonged trauma: The intensity and duration of the trauma can influence the development of PTSD
- Lack of social support: Limited access to emotional support or social isolation after a traumatic event
- Substance abuse: Alcohol or drug use may interfere with the ability to cope with trauma and worsen PTSD symptoms
- Brain chemistry imbalances: Changes in neurotransmitters or stress hormone regulation can affect how emotional experiences are processed
- History of childhood abuse: Early life experiences of neglect, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can increase vulnerability to PTSD later in life
Serenity Mental Health Centers | Lehi Reviews
Mah is the BEST! She’s so caring and attentive. It’s rare to find healthcare providers who actually listen like she does
Can’t recommend her enough!
Serenity and everyone there always treats me so well. Tanner listens to everything I have to say and makes sure to answer any questions or concerns that I have. He acts on what he feels is best, and it’s made a world of difference for me. I am so grateful for all they do!!
Everyone from the desk staff to the Techs, RNs, and NPs are kind, compassionate, and excellent at their jobs. I’m so very grateful to have found them.
Manwaring is helping me he is great!
178
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
How Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosed?
PTSD is identified through an extensive assessment conducted by one of our board-certified psychiatrists. The evaluation process generally includes a clinical interview where we explore your symptoms, past experiences, and any incidents related to the trauma. We often use standardized self-report questionnaires to determine the intensity and regularity of symptoms, and to assess for the presence of other mental health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, about 6-9 percent of individuals will experience PTSD at some stage in their lives. This disorder is especially frequent among veterans and first responders due to their routine exposure to traumatic events. Civilians who have undergone significant trauma, such as physical assaults, natural disasters, major accidents, or the unexpected death of a loved one, are also at considerable risk. The increased awareness of PTSD has resulted in the development of more effective treatments and support networks.
How do PTSD symptoms differ between children and adults?
The symptoms of PTSD can appear differently in children compared to adults, with variations largely dependent on age and developmental stage. Younger children may display distress through behaviors such as increased clinginess, new fears, or regression to earlier developmental stages. School-aged children might face challenges with their schoolwork and have difficulties sleeping. Teenagers may engage in risky behaviors, withdraw from social interactions, or experience significant mood swings. Recognizing these age-specific symptoms is crucial for providing appropriate and tailored support.
What factors contribute to the risk of developing PTSD?
Several factors can elevate the risk of developing PTSD following a traumatic event. Individuals with a history of mental health problems, previous exposure to trauma, or a genetic predisposition are at a higher risk. The intensity and duration of the traumatic event, as well as the quality and immediacy of available support, play significant roles in determining the likelihood of developing PTSD. Personal interpretations of the trauma, such as feelings of helplessness, also heavily influence the risk. Conversely, having a strong support network can lower the risk, while the absence of support can increase vulnerability to PTSD.
Take Back Control
Serenity Mental Health Centers in Lehi, UT provides assistance to individuals suffering from PTSD. Our team offers diverse treatment modalities, including prescription medications, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and additional therapeutic options. Coping with PTSD can be daunting for both the individual and their family, but with the support of our professionals, you don't have to navigate it alone. We are committed to guiding you and your family through the diagnosis, treatment, and management of PTSD.