As the field of psychology has grown over the years and new research has been done, the condition that we now call Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has gone by many names, such as soldier’s heart, battle fatigue, and shellshock. When this condition was first observed in soldiers returning from the trenches of WWI, treatment options were very limited. As psychologists’ understanding of this condition and its causes has grown, however, new treatments have emerged. Clinical psychologist Dr. James Campbell wants to help those suffering from post-traumatic stress find treatment that works for them, so here is an overview of some of the PTSD treatment options available.
- Medication- Like many other mental illnesses, medication can be used to help treat PTSD. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), both of which are used to treat depression, can also help alleviate the symptoms of PTSD. These medications help correct imbalances in brain chemistry, which leads to improved mental health.
- Talk Therapy- Other PTSD treatment options include various forms of trauma-focused psychotherapy. While there are many types of talk therapy available, these two varieties have the most research support when it comes to PTSD:
- Cognitive Processing Therapy – This PTSD treatment option is focused on helping you with the upsetting thoughts and emotions you have been having since your trauma. Your therapist will help you learn to change these thoughts and feelings so that you aren’t stuck in a dark mental place anymore.
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy – In this form of therapy, you will learn how to gradually approach trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations that you have been avoiding since the trauma occurred. This will allow you to fully process these memories and associations and find healing.
If you are interested in seeking therapy for your PTSD, reach out to the office of Dr. James Campbell, LLC to find out more about the help Dr. Campbell can provide.