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Trauma-related disorders are mental health conditions that develop after being exposed to traumatic events, either directly or indirectly. Not everyone develops a disorder after experiencing trauma. Still, some people develop acute stress disorder within days of the exposure that lasts a month or less, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), where symptoms can start right away or as long as six months after the event, and last a month or longer. It’s estimated that about 6.2% of people will experience PTSD during their lifetime, and it can have a significant impact on daily life, relationships, and school or work. The good news is that trauma-related disorders are treatable, and many people live fulfilling lives with proper support and care.
Symptoms of Trauma
Below are symptoms specific to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s important to note that the symptoms of trauma-related disorders look different in children.
Emotional and Cognitive Symptoms:
- Depression, or being unable to experience positive emotions
- Severe anxiety, including panic attacks
- Having dreams or nightmares related to the event
- Flashbacks, or unwanted memories or thoughts about the event that one can’t help but think about
- Being distressed emotionally or physically when reminded of the event
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest in activities or things that were once pleasurable
- Dissociation, or feeling detached from oneself or that the world around them isn’t real
- Trouble remembering aspects of the traumatic event
- Negative or unhelpful thoughts
- Feelings of restlessness, shame, irritability, anger, guilt, horror, or fear
- Hypervigilance, or constantly looking for danger in one’s environment
Physical Symptoms:
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Being easily startled
Behavioral Changes:
- Trying to avoid reminders of or thoughts about the event
- Difficulty at work or school, or in one’s relationships
- Angry outbursts
- Impulsive actions, including self-destructive behaviors
When to Seek Help:
If you're experiencing symptoms that last longer than one month or that significantly interfere with your daily activities, it's essential to seek professional support.
Treatment Options for Trauma-Related Disorders
There are several treatment options for people who develop a trauma-related disorder. The three therapies listed below are considered by the American Psychological Association as “first-line treatments,” meaning they have the most research support backing their effectiveness. There are other treatments that have been shown to be helpful, but there is less research backing their effectiveness. Additionally, many people benefit from peer support, as it allows them to learn from and connect with other survivors.
Evidence-Based Treatments:
Therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: CBT focuses on how one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and teaches people new strategies that help to promote recovery from traumatic experiences.
- Cognitive processing therapy: CPT is a form of CBT that focuses on themes of safety, trust, power, esteem, and intimacy to help people recover from the impact of trauma.
- Prolonged exposure therapy: PE is a type of CBT that helps people to gradually approach their trauma-related memories and feelings.
Medication:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: SSRIs are the recommended first-line class of medication for treating PTSD with pharmacology, as they help to address mood and anxiety-related symptoms.
Lifestyle Support:
- Getting regular exercise and movement
- Sleep hygiene practices
- Stress management techniques
- Utilizing one’s social support networks
- Spending time in nature
Crisis Resources
Immediate Help:
Emergency
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Crisis Text Line
When to Seek Emergency Care:
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Inability to care for basic needs
How Willow Health Can Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma or is experiencing a mental health crisis, reach out to the team at Willow Health today. We offer same-day or next-business-day appointments to ensure that individuals experiencing a mental health crisis receive the timely care they need.
Our patients meet with both a psychotherapist, psychiatrist, or psychiatric NP for an assessment to create an individualized care plan tailored to meet each person’s needs. We also offer care management and peer support services to ensure comprehensive support is available to all of our patients. We would be honored to support you in your healing and recovery process.
Sources
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) | Psychiatry Online
- Treatments for PTSD
- Pharmacotherapy for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - PMC
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
FAQs
For more detailed information or personalized assistance, feel free to reach out to us directly — your journey to understanding and accessing transformative behavioral health care starts with a conversation.
Willow currently accepts select insurance plans for payment of your medication provider’s or therapist’s services. Call us at (646) 814-1530 to check your coverage status.
The length of treatment depends on the individual’s needs and the treatment modality; some protocols last between eight and twelve weeks.
The psychiatrist or psychiatric NP will meet with you and will let you know if medications are recommended based on the severity of your symptoms.
Yes! Many people who have experienced trauma go on to recover and lead meaningful lives. Treatment can help. Contact us today to get started.