The Ultimate Guide: Understanding What Is Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome

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what is post traumatic stress syndrome

The Ultimate Guide: Understanding What Is Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome

Delving Deep Into The World Of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome

In this comprehensive guide, we will be enlightening you on what Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSS) is, its causes, symptoms, treatments and how to manage it. We hope you will find this educational and beneficial whether you are seeking understanding of your own mental health or considering training in the psychological field.

Key Points Covered In This Article:

  1. What is Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
  2. Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
  3. Causes and risk factors of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
  4. Treatments available for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
  5. Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome management skills

What is Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is a question often asked by people who have undergone disturbing and highly stressful events. PTSS, also known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD, is a mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it.


Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome

The symptoms range from mild to severe, depending on the individual and the severity of the traumatic situation. Symptoms of PTSS might not emerge immediately after the traumatic event. It might take weeks, months, or even years, but when they do, they often interfere with day-to-day functioning.

  • Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event.
  • Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event.
  • Negative thoughts about oneself, other people or the world.
  • Feeling emotionally numb.
  • Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior.

Causes and Risk Factors of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome

The causes of PTSS are usually complex and often interrelated. They include:

  • Experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event.
  • Having a co-existing mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.
  • Inherited mental health risks, such as susceptibility to anxiety and depression.

Available Treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome

Treatments for PTSS can be divided into two categories: psychotherapy and medication.

Psychotherapy: This form of therapy, also known as talk therapy, involves talking about your trauma with a mental health professional.

Cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and group therapy are some of the types of psychotherapy used to treat PTSS.

Medication: Medications are often combined with psychotherapy. Some of the medications used are antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and Prazosin.


Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome Management Skills

The management of PTSS is imperative and should be a key area of focus. Self-care, sticking to the treatment plan, and learning more about PTSS are all practical management skills.


FAQs

Q: Can Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome be cured?A: With proper treatment, symptoms of PTSS can be reduced or even eliminated over time. However, it is a process and may take time.

Q: Can PTSS surface years after a traumatic event?A: Yes, it can take months or even years before symptoms appear, especially if the person has repressed memories of the event.

Q: Is PTSS only caused by violent trauma?A: While violent trauma like war and assault often cause PTSS, other traumas such as natural disasters, accidents, or sudden loss can also lead to the syndrome.

Q: Can someone fully recover from PTSS?A: Recovery varies from person to person. Some people may fully recover while others may continue to experience symptoms but learn to manage and live with them.


We hope this guide helped you gain a more thorough understanding of what Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is. If you are seeking professional help or training, please contact us at Aura Institute.

Remember, there's no shame in needing help. You are not alone.



Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.

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Understanding Trauma Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide to Trauma-Informed Training and Education

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