How Is PTSD Diagnosed?
Millions of Americans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the feelings of intense anxiety it can cause. Fortunately, treatment can help — and it all begins with a diagnosis. Here’s what’s involved.
Myths and Facts About PTSD
One in 11 Americans experiences post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives. It's natural to feel afraid or angry after a traumatic event. However, when these emotions persist long after the event is over, it can put the body in a chronic state of stress, leading to PTSD.
People suffering from PTSD may experience the following symptoms:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Extreme stress
- Anger outbursts
- Intrusive thoughts
- Paranoia
- Social avoidance
Our experts at Bowman Medical Group offer treatment to residents of Beverly Hills, California, and the surrounding areas. If you think you or someone you love might have PTSD, read on to learn more about the disorder and find out how it's treated.
Myth #1 Only soldiers develop PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder can happen to anyone, including children who go through a traumatic experience or witness a traumatic event. Abuse, car crashes, and illnesses can trigger PTSD.
You may be at a higher risk of developing PTSD if you dealt with anxiety and emotional problems while growing up, come from an abusive environment, or use self-blame as a defense mechanism.
Myth #2 PTSD occurs right after a traumatic event
If PTSD is caused by a traumatic event, one might think that the disorder develops immediately after the event.
However, some PTSD patients develop symptoms months after experiencing a traumatic event. In abused children and teenagers, memories are often suppressed and symptoms may only surface in adulthood, years after the event.
Myth #3 People living with PTSD are emotionally weak
This misunderstanding is due to the fact that not everyone who endures or witnesses a traumatic event develops PTSD.
The degree to which a traumatic event damages an individual’s well-being is often impacted by factors such as receiving support from family, feeling appreciated, and having a strong sense of self. For this reason, children and adults who lack the proper support system are more likely to develop PTSD.
In other words, PTSD isn’t an emotional weakness but a response to a traumatic event in people who couldn’t find the resources to cope with their experiences. How often the victim experienced trauma and how long it lasted also impact the development of the disorder.
Getting the help you need for PTSD in Beverly Hills, California
Currently, there’s no cure for PTSD, but there are available treatments for managing the symptoms and improving life satisfaction.
Our experts at Bowman Medical Group can work with you to provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment for your unique circumstances.
Contact us to schedule an appointment and get guidance on what you can do next to improve your condition.
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