What is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)?
When the Past Feels Present
Definition:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event involving actual or threatened harm. According to the DSM-5-TR, it is characterized by intrusive memories, avoidance, negative mood or thoughts, and hyperarousal.
Common Symptoms
Intrusions: Flashbacks, nightmares, or distressing thoughts.
Avoidance: Steering clear of reminders of the trauma.
Mood changes: Guilt, detachment, loss of interest.
Arousal symptoms: Irritability, hypervigilance, poor sleep, exaggerated startle response.
Living with PTSD
PTSD can make it feel like you’re “stuck in the moment” even when you’re safe. Sounds, smells, or places may trigger intense emotions or body sensations. This is the brain’s way of signaling danger, even if the event is long past.
The good news is that trauma therapy helps the brain and body learn that the danger is no longer present.
Treatment and Support
Evidence-based approaches include:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
At Life Wellness Therapy, treatment is gentle, paced, and collaborative. Healing happens in safety.
Why It Matters
PTSD is not a sign of weakness — it’s a sign your brain is protecting you the best way it knows how. With support and time, those protective responses can be calmed, allowing life to feel whole again.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR.
National Center for PTSD. (2023). Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment.
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
