What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Causes of PTSD
Feeling afraid during traumatic situations is normal, and your body’s natural protective “fight or flight” instinct kicks into high gear. Many people recover from the flood of emotions, hormones, and physical changes without assistance, but others experience lasting effects that are harder to shake. Researchers aren’t sure what causes PTSD, but they have identified certain risk factors, including:
Experiencing intense fear, horror, and helplessness during a traumatic event
Insufficient social support when recovering from a traumatic event
History of childhood trauma prior to a traumatic event
Dealing with additional stress after a traumatic event
History of substance use and/or mental illness before and after a traumatic event
Experiencing trauma that lasts for an extended period
Re-Experiencing Symptoms
Nightmares and flashbacks, which can be accompanied by sweating and an increased heart rate, can disrupt everyday life. These symptoms may stem from your thoughts, or they can be triggered by specific situations or objects.
Avoidance Symptoms
Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms
Cognition and Mood Symptoms
PTSD Therapy and Treatment
We have more than 50,000 hours providing compassionate treatment to patients in Saratoga Springs, New York. We are ready to provide care and support to help you find the PTSD treatment options that will provide relief for your symptoms.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Let us help you discover the bright, beautiful future ahead of you.
