PTSD Treatment

At Allen Psychiatry, we understand the pain and turmoil that can accompany PTSD, but we also believe in the power of healing and recovery. With our compassionate support, evidence-based therapies, and medication management, we are here to help you find your path to resilience, hope, and a brighter future.

If you want to learn more about treatment for PTSD, please call (385) 504-1334 or schedule an appointment online today.

Understanding PTSD

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can cause significant distress and interfere with daily life. PTSD is a natural response to trauma, but when symptoms persist and interfere with functioning, professional treatment becomes essential for recovery.

Key Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD manifests through four main categories of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration. These symptoms typically begin within three months of the traumatic event but may appear later.

• Intrusive Memories: Recurring, unwanted memories of traumatic events, flashbacks that make you feel like you're reliving the trauma, and distressing dreams or nightmares. These can be triggered by reminders of the event and cause intense emotional and physical reactions.
• Avoidance: Avoiding places, people, or activities that remind you of the traumatic event; avoiding talking or thinking about the trauma; and feeling emotionally numb or detached from others. This can lead to social isolation and withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities.
• Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, difficulty maintaining close relationships, loss of interest in activities, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, and persistent negative beliefs about yourself, others, or the world.
• Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Being easily startled, feeling tense or on edge, having difficulty sleeping, experiencing angry outbursts, engaging in self-destructive behavior, and having trouble concentrating. These symptoms can make daily functioning challenging.

Common Causes of PTSD

PTSD can develop after exposure to any event that involves actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violation. Understanding these causes helps inform treatment approaches.

• Combat Exposure: Military personnel exposed to combat situations, witnessing death, or experiencing life-threatening situations
• Physical or Sexual Assault: Experiencing or witnessing violent attacks, domestic violence, or sexual assault
• Accidents and Disasters: Car accidents, natural disasters, fires, or other life-threatening events
• Medical Trauma: Serious illness, medical procedures, or witnessing medical emergencies
• Childhood Trauma: Abuse, neglect, or other traumatic experiences during childhood
• Secondary Trauma: Learning about the traumatic experiences of close family or friends, or repeated exposure to traumatic stories

Risk Factors for PTSD

While anyone can develop PTSD after trauma, certain factors may increase the risk:

• Intensity and Duration of Trauma: More severe and prolonged trauma increases the risk of developing PTSD
• Personal History: Previous traumatic experiences, especially in childhood, can increase vulnerability
• Mental Health History: Personal or family history of mental health issues, including anxiety or depression
• Support System: A lack of support from family and friends can exacerbate symptoms and delay recovery
• Biological Factors: Genetic predisposition and differences in brain chemistry may play a role
• Substance Use: Alcohol or drug use can both contribute to and worsen PTSD symptoms

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Effective PTSD treatment typically involves a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to each individual's specific needs and circumstances.

• Medication Management: In some cases, medication may be a beneficial part of your treatment plan. Our leading psychiatrists in Provo, UT, are skilled in prescribing medications that can help alleviate symptoms of PTSD. These medications can assist in rebalancing the brain chemistry disrupted by trauma, making it easier for you to engage in therapy and work toward recovery.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to PTSD symptoms. This includes cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure therapy.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Involves guided eye movements to help process and integrate traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact.
• Exposure Therapy: Helps patients face and control their fears by gradually exposing them to trauma-related stimuli in a safe environment.
• Group Therapy: Provides support and understanding from others who have experienced similar trauma.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, stress management techniques, and healthy sleep habits can support recovery.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your journey toward healing begins with a comprehensive evaluation and continues with ongoing support and monitoring:

• Initial Assessment: A thorough discussion of your trauma history, current symptoms, and treatment goals
• Treatment Planning: Development of a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes
• Safety Planning: Creating strategies to manage symptoms and ensure your safety during treatment
• Regular Monitoring: Ongoing assessment of your progress and adjustment of treatment as needed
• Support and Education: Information about PTSD, treatment options, and coping strategies
• Collaboration: Working together to ensure your treatment plan meets your needs and preferences