Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
WHAT IS PTSD?
Posttraumatic Stress or PTSD is a series of symptoms experienced in the aftermath of a traumatic event or series of events. Data about the event(s) was not like other events and got stuck when processing through. Typically, we process data about everyday things that happen and that data goes into storage within our mind. But a trauma that remains stuck and unprocessed can cause the mind to react as if the trauma is still happening, leading to all sorts of symptoms.
PTSD is extremely common in Canada. In fact, it is estimated that 8% of Canadians meet the criteria for PTSD - that's millions! You are absolutely not alone. PTSD can result from various experiences, not limited to:
- Sexual assault or rape
- Car accident
- Veteran trauma
- Childhood trauma
- Molestation or abuse
- Witnessing a stressful event
- Death of a loved one
- Physical assault
- Repeated exposure to traumatic events at work (example: first responders)
- Workplace accident
SYMPTOMS OF PTSD
To meet the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, symptoms must continue to persist after one month post-event, but at times full symptoms can be delayed up to six months post-event. Here is a brief overview of PTSD symptoms:
- Exposure to a stressor event
- One intrusion symptom causing a re-living of the trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, unwanted memories)
- One avoidance symptom of any trigger leading to trauma-related thoughts, feelings or sensations.
- Two changes (negative) in cognition or mood (memory recall, negative thinking, low mood, isolation)
- Increased reactivity (extra aware or vigilant, irritable, easily startled, trouble sleeping or concentrating)
HOW TO HEAL FROM PTSD
There are numerous ways of treating PTSD that are available, such as cognitive processing therapy, talk therapies, CBT-Trauma, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and others. There are also many self-help methods that people use to help themselves combat PTSD symptoms, as well as medication prescribed by a Psychiatrist at times. But most often, deeper, subconscious work is needed in order to clear up the stuck data. There is good news though! It does not have to be a lengthy process of re-living the trauma in therapy sessions. It can be done quickly, and painlessly, from the comfort of your home, online.
We at FreeMind Therapy do it everyday! The approach is known as Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) an alternative, emerging, neuroscience method of treating PTSD and trauma. The details of the trauma do not even need to be disclosed or re-lived, so it is virtually painless. RRT can get to the root and clear PTSD symptoms within 1-3 sessions, or it can take place over a number of 50min sessions. Contact us to find out which therapists are offering RRT and book a consultation.
NEXT STEPS
Seeing a therapist who is experienced in working with PTSD is critical to healing and a successful therapy experience. With so many therapeutic approaches to addressing PTSD, it's important to choose a good fit for you. The best way to do this, and to learn more about RRT, book a consultation!