When a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, it can cause long-lasting psychological issues that are difficult to overcome. The accumulation of these various mental health symptoms following trauma is referred to as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it affects countless people across the country. Undergoing therapy, however, has proven to help alleviate PTSD symptoms. Below are some of the main indicators of this psychological disorder.

What Are the Signs of PTSD? 

1. Flashbacks

A very common symptom of this mental health disorder is vivid and troublesome memories of the event that caused the PTSD. It may seem as if you are reliving that one traumatic moment. It can be so intense that it causes physical symptoms such as sweating, quickened breathing, and an elevated heart rate—all of which can be intrusive to your day-to-day activities.

2. Avoidance

Depending on the nature of the event that caused the initial trauma, those with PTSD tend to avoid certain places, people, or activities that stir up painful memories. It can be broad, such as a soldier refusing to watch any movies that depict war, or more specific, like a person never returning to the scene of the incident. This is a coping mechanism to avoid having painful memories forced upon you.

3. Insomnia

Another mental health concern for someone with PTSD is the inability to fall asleep or maintain restful sleep throughout the night. This can be in part because of recurring nightmares. However, it is also a combination of other symptoms, including stress and anxiety.

4. Depression

Some people experiencing PTSD are prone to depression, which can include feelings of anger, guilt, sadness, and general hopelessness. Sometimes, it can even lead to thoughts of guilt or self-blame. Know that you are not alone and that you can speak to others about these feelings. 

5. Self-Destructive Behaviors

In an attempt to avoid the mental and emotional pain caused by PTSD, many people turn to drugs or alcohol as coping mechanisms. In fact, people with PTSD are more likely than others to develop a drinking problem as a result of their trauma. Some will even turn to suicide as an alternative to dealing with the various symptoms.

 

PTSD is a serious mental health issue that can cause a variety of other problems. If the above symptoms seem familiar, consider meeting with the professionals at Lincoln Psychiatric Group in Lancaster County, NE. With over 75 years of experience treating a variety of psychological disorders, their highly qualified counselors and psychiatrists can help you understand and overcome the trauma you’ve experienced in your past so that you can move forward. You don’t have to go it alone. Give them a call today at (402) 476-7557 or learn more about their therapy services online.