Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: What Does It Mean?
Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.
Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.
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.
Understanding the Implications of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
What Does Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Mean?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, commonly abbreviated as PTSD, is a mental health condition triggered by deeply traumatic experiences, often characterized by the inability to free oneself from the psychological aftermath.
Key points covered in this article:
- Defining what post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) means
- The Types and Specific Symptoms of PTSD
- Causes and Risk Factors of PTSD
- Diagnosis and Treatment Options available for PTSD
- Personal Resilience and Coping
- PTSD Training and Professional Career Opportunities
The Types and Specific Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD manifest in four types; Reliving, Avoidance, Changes in beliefs and Hyper-arousal. Someone reliving PTSD relive their traumatic experience through flashbacks and nightmares. Avoidance is characterized by the avoidance of people, places, thoughts or situations that might bring back the trauma. Changes in beliefs refer to the negative perception of oneself and the world, while hyper-arousal is exhibited through hyper vigilance, insomnia and being easily startled.
Causes and Risk Factors of PTSD
Exposure to a traumatic and threatening event is the primary cause of PTSD. This could vary from car accidents, violent personal attacks such as mugging, to traumatic combat experience for military personnel. Some people are more at risk than others due to genetic factors. Long term, ongoing stress such as living under hostiles conditions for a long time might also lead to PTSD.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for PTSD
Diagnosis of PTSD occurs only after a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional, usually after *versive traumatic event. Treatment varies depending on individual needs, but it often involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive processing therapy and exposure therapy, medications such as SSRIs and SNRIs, and group therapy and couples counseling.
“PTSD is a significant public health problem that requires careful and continued attention from mental health professionals” - [American Psychiatric Association ]
Personal Resilience and Coping
Building personal resilience is about strengthening your ability to adapt after experiencing trauma. This might involve formal support groups sessions or spending time with friends and family. Mindfulness and stress management practices have been found highly effective for managing PTSD.
PTSD Training and Professional Career Opportunities
There are educational and career opportunities for those interested in helping victims of PTSD, including training in fields such as psychology, psychiatry, and social work, amongst others. For more information on the professional training we offer, see our courses page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can PTSD be cured?A: The aim of treatment is not to erase memories of the event, but learn to manage feelings around it and regain functionality in life.
Q: Can PTSD develop years after a traumatic event?A: Yes, sometimes PTSD symptoms can start months or even years after experiencing trauma.
Q: Is PTSD only for soldiers?A: Although PTSD is often associated with war veterans, anyone can develop PTSD after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
Q: How common is PTSD?A: Statistics show that PTSD affects about 3.5% of the U.S adult population and about one in 11 people will suffer from PTSD in their lifetime.
We hope this comprehensive guide gives you a clear understanding of what Post Traumatic Stress Disorder means. PTSD can be a debilitating condition, but with the right treatment and support, those affected can live fulfilling lives. Remember, at Aura Institute, we're committed to both those seeking mental health guidance and those aiming to train in this significant field.
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.