PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a mental health condition that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of triggers, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and heightened anxiety or emotional arousal. Leaving PTSD untreated can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Without proper treatment, the symptoms of PTSD can worsen over time and lead to other mental health conditions, such as depression or substance abuse.
Acute trauma refers to a single traumatic event or a series of traumatic events that occur within a short period of time, such as a natural disaster, car accident, or physical assault. The symptoms of acute trauma typically include intense fear, anxiety, and helplessness, as well as physical symptoms such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, and nausea. People may also experience flashbacks or nightmares related to the event and may avoid triggers that remind them of the trauma. These symptoms may persist for a few days or weeks but generally resolve on their own, without the need for long-term treatment.
Occurs when someone experiences repeated traumatic events over a prolonged period, such as ongoing physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence. The symptoms of chronic trauma may include depression, anxiety, and dissociation, as well as physical symptoms such as headaches and chronic pain. People who experience chronic trauma may also struggle with trust, relationships, and self-esteem, and may have difficulty regulating their emotions. Treatment for chronic trauma often involves long-term therapy and other support services to help individuals heal and recover.
Refers to exposure to multiple traumatic events, often of an interpersonal nature, that occur over an extended period of time, such as ongoing childhood abuse, neglect, or captivity. The symptoms of complex trauma include difficulties with emotional regulation, self-perception, and interpersonal relationships. People who experience complex trauma may also struggle with dissociation, feelings of shame, and a distorted sense of identity. Treatment for complex trauma typically involves a combination of therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy, as well as other support services to help individuals heal from their experiences.
CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thoughts and behaviours that are associated with their PTSD symptoms. We use techniques such as exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing the person to their traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment, to help them overcome their fears and anxieties.
Mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), may help individuals with PTSD manage their symptoms by increasing their awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. This can help them learn to respond to their symptoms in a more adaptive way, rather than reacting impulsively.
