Stress and Post Traumatic Stress
Article by M. Joy Young, LCSW, ACSW Portland Oregon
Stress is common to just about everyone but some people cope better then others. It is worth saying, that we live in a culture that is highly competitive, materialistic, and somewhat isolating. Without adequate financial resources, emotional support, and sense of belonging what is considered “normal” stress can become very unbearable.
It is common for people to experience stress and adjustment difficulty after witnessing or experiencing directly a major life stressor or traumatic event. But with time, good support, and adequate coping most people recover. However, there are times when symptoms do not improve. Some people may go on to have continued difficulty coping with the traumatic events and symptoms can last for months or years. Extreme stressors or traumatic events may include witness bank robberies, victim of crime, domestic violence, tragic accidents, assult, and other traumatic experiences, war situations. Symptoms like these are often associated with Post Traumatic Stress disorder also called ptsd.
Post traumatic stress symptoms
Post traumatic stress symptoms are grouped into three main symptoms that include intrusive memories, avoidance or numbing, and increased anxiety or emotional arousal. Symptoms such as “flash backs” of the traumatic experience, upsetting dreams, avoidance of situations or stimulus that triggers thoughts and feelings about the traumatic event, numbness, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and diet, avoidance and other symptoms that impair living life fully may all indicate ptsd.
Before you assume you have ptsd it is important that you consult with a licensed mental health professional and/or your primary care physician. A licensed professional can conduct a complete assessment and testing to determine if your symptoms meet the criteria of post traumatic stress disorder.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment
Like other anxiety symptoms, PTSD is often treated with a combination of clinical treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure, and mindfulness based cognitive treatments amoung others.
Research reports that the one of the most curitive factors in therapy is the relationship you have with your counselor. Selecting a professional counselor that you trust, feel comfortable, and who shares a similar world view is essential. To schedule a FREE 30 minute consultation for anxiety counseling contact Joy at (503) 309-1163 . I look forward to serving you.