What You Should Know About PTSD

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Many people think of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) as something that occurs only in those who have served in the military. While facing combat can most assuredly result in PTSD, there are several other traumatic events that can cause it. Here are a few other things you should know about PTSD.

What You Should Know About PTSD

  • Symptoms of PTSD can surface immediately after a traumatic episode or may not develop until months or even years later.
  • People of any age can experience PTSD. Even children who have been victims of abuse, violence, or neglect can experience it.
  • The symptoms of PTSD are quite varied. While some experience flashbacks or nightmares, others can experience irritability, difficulty concentrating, or have difficulty sleeping. Avoidance and loss of interest in enjoyable activities are also common traits in many who suffer from PTSD.
  • It is not uncommon for PTSD sufferers to have other issues, including depression, headaches, stomach issues, anxiety, or phobias, and they may also misuse drugs and/or alcohol.
  • A few of the known causes for PTSD include war/conflicts, torture, childbirth, childhood abuse, physical assault, sexual assault, vehicle accidents, workplace accidents, serious health problems, traumatic events at work, or the loss of a loved one.
  • People with PTSD usually have a higher-than-normal level of stress hormones. In addition, their hippocampus is often smaller than normal. As this area of the brain is responsible for emotions and memory, this malfunctioning could be part of the condition.
  • There are a variety of PTSD treatment options once a PTSD assessment has been completed and it is determined that a patient dealing with depression and/or anxiety and working at overcoming trauma can benefit from the services of a licensed clinical psychologist.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of PTSD, you can begin your journey to recovery by reaching out to the office of Dr. James Campbell, LLC. As an experienced trauma therapist in Plantation, Florida, Dr. James Campbell takes a compassionate and dedicated approach to helping his clients face their challenges and overcome them. He knows that each of his clients is different, so truly understanding their situation and what they are facing is crucial to their treatment. Dr. Campbell engages with each of his clients to help them find solutions to take the next step in healing.