5 Kinds Of PTSD And Their Treatments

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects individuals differently, making it challenging to manage. Some resort to alcohol or drugs to cope, which often exacerbates common PTSD symptoms. Research indicates that there are several distinct forms of PTSD. Recognizing the PTSD DSM 5 criteria and identifying which type you suffer from can help you find the most appropriate treatment.

What Are The 5 Kinds Of PTSD?

At its core, PTSD is linked to experiencing a traumatic event. Sometimes, inherited personality traits may lead to PTSD. More frequently, the specific PTSD type is due to the nature of the trauma, the duration of the traumatic experience(s), and any other mental health conditions.

Uncomplicated PTSD: Associated with a single significant traumatic event, uncomplicated PTSD does not involve multiple incidents. It could be related to a particular accident or natural disaster. This condition may include persistent re-experiencing of the traumatic event. Uncomplicated PTSD is generally easier for therapists to treat than other forms. Symptoms might include flashbacks, nightmares, and mood swings.

Comorbid PTSD: Distinct from other PTSD types, comorbid PTSD involves more than one mental condition. Individuals with this disorder may also have substance use issues. Common comorbid conditions with PTSD include depression, panic disorder, and anxiety. This disorder is also referred to as a "co-occurring disorder" since it coexists with other disorders. Treatment for comorbid PTSD is usually addressed holistically rather than individually.

Normal Stress Response: Occurring before PTSD, the normal stress response may not always lead to PTSD, depending on the assistance received. Early treatment generally yields better results. This response may result from events like illness, surgery, high pressure, and accidents.

Acute Stress Disorder: Also preceding PTSD, this disorder can affect those who have experienced a life-threatening event, such as the death of a loved one, near-death experience, natural disaster, or unemployment. Acute stress disorder typically appears shortly after these events and can progress into PTSD. Most cases last for a month, but if it persists longer, it may be considered PTSD. Symptoms include headaches, sweating, chest pain, palpitations, nausea, and stomach pain.

Complex PTSD: Unlike other types, complex PTSD is related to multiple traumatic events. It is prevalent among individuals who have experienced abuse or domestic violence or an unexpected loss. Other potential causes include ongoing war experiences and community violence. Symptoms of complex PTSD include nightmares, flashbacks, mood swings, and irritability. It may also be associated with borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, aggression, substance abuse, and impulsivity.

Avoiding Stress Disorders, Including PTSD

Coping with traumatic events can be difficult. Many individuals struggle to stop dwelling on these incidents after they occur, leading to feelings of fear, anger, depression, and anxiety. These emotions are often indicative of trauma. If you experience any of these feelings, consider talking to trusted family members or friends or seeking therapy, which could help prevent PTSD.

Addressing PTSD Symptoms

Post-traumatic disorders often involve challenging-to-treat symptoms. Some individuals with this disorder resort to drugs or alcohol for self-medication, but these coping mechanisms can be risky and may cause additional health issues.

Connect With Others

Sharing your traumatic experiences and symptoms like anger, fear, anxiety, and depression can be tough. However, discussing PTSD symptoms with trusted individuals can be beneficial. If you have difficulty talking to people, try learning more about the condition to enhance communication. Taking steps to reduce isolation is also essential.

Consider the following supportive activities when coping with PTSD:

• Arrange meals with loved ones.
• Enjoy games with family and friends.
• Watch humorous, uplifting movies together.
• Take long walks with a close companion.
• Engage in deep, meaningful conversations with others.

Mindfulness

Adopting meditation techniques can be an effective way to alleviate stress. Mindfulness techniques can be especially helpful for PTSD symptoms like anxiety, depression, and fear.

Mindfulness for PTSD focuses on teaching individuals to be present instead of dwelling on the traumatic event. It helps calm the body, release tension, and enhance overall mental health. Just a few minutes of daily mindfulness practice can help combat anxiety, fear, or depression. Additional benefits of mindfulness include:

• Stress relief
• Heart disease treatment
• Blood pressure reduction
• Chronic pain alleviation
• Sleep improvement
• Mental health enhancement

Not All Trauma Is The Same. Find Personalized Therapy Here

Physical Activity or Exercise

Engaging in physical activity or exercise offers numerous benefits for the body and mind. Even without a strict exercise routine, any physical activity can be helpful. Activities like running or surfing help regulate mood and emotions. Psychologists also suggest that a ten-minute walk daily can alleviate depression and anxiety.

Many individuals with PTSD find physical activity and exercise beneficial for reducing stress levels and managing severe symptoms like anxiety or depression. To incorporate exercise into your healing process, consider the following steps:

• Select a preferred activity or exercise.
• Begin with small steps.
• Participate in the activity or exercise consistently.
• Create a comfortable exercise environment, such as listening to music.
• Invite a friend or family member to join you.
• Take a gradual approach and avoid rushing.
• Stay hydrated during exercise.

Journal Your Emotions

The benefits of journaling are often overlooked. Writing about your feelings can help process complex emotions and alleviate accumulated stress. Journaling provides a safe space for emotional release and reflection, which can be especially comforting for individuals with PTSD who struggle with recurring flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive memories.

Managing Common PTSD Triggers

Individuals with PTSD may experience ongoing fear and anxiety, often triggered by memories of traumatic events. These memories can evoke intense emotions like sadness, pain, loneliness, and vulnerability. Common PTSD triggers include:

• Scents
• Television programs
• Video footage
• Specific conversations
• Locations associated with the event

Aspects to Avoid While Coping with PTSD

During your PTSD recovery process, consider avoiding the following:

• Substance abuse
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Caffeine consumption
• Social isolation
• Irregular sleep patterns
• Excessive use of screens
• Seeking Assistance for PTSD

Managing PTSD can be challenging, and adhering to specific guidelines or rules may not come easily. Establishing connections with loved ones, reducing alcohol intake, and practicing mindfulness might not be achievable for everyone immediately.

Additionally, some individuals with PTSD may experience symptoms that hinder their ability to seek in-person therapy, such as sensitivity to certain noises, fatigue, or anxiety. These individuals may prefer to access help from the comfort of their homes.

Nowadays, online treatment options are available from companies like ReachLink for PTSD therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has proven to be equally effective in virtual and traditional settings.

Conclusion

If you struggle to overcome PTSD independently, consider contacting a licensed therapist. ReachLink offers quality therapy services to assist you in successfully handling life's challenges, even with PTSD.