Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Methods Of Recovery

Seven Ways You Can Treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a problem which arises after someone has been through a traumatic experience. This experience can range from sexual abuse, to a natural disaster, war, or a car crash. PTSD symptoms typically begin within a few months after a traumatic experience but can also take place years after an experience. PTSD rehab at a PTSD treatment center is often recommended for those suffering from prior trauma. These post traumatic stress disorder treatment facilities have been proven effective in a number of recovery cases.

Dealing with post traumatic stress disorder can be a very difficult situation, one that is often made harder when dealing with it alone. By incorporating therapy techniques and letting those around you lend their support, recovery becomes much more of a possibility. Setting goals for therapy (with your therapist) is often a very effective way to get the most out of treatment. Various therapy and treatment types recommended to those suffering from PTSD include:

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – The goal of these therapy sessions is to better understand and cope with feelings associated with PTSD and trauma. Often, the coping processing involves replacing negative thought patterns with healthier ones that you and your therapist can come up with together. Cognitive behavioral therapy is often very helpful and one of the most effective therapies for someone experiencing post traumatic stress disorder.
  2. Family Therapy – As its name states, family therapy is a form of therapy involving the whole family. A primary goal of this therapy is to promote better communication among family members. Certain family members may not understand your mood changes as a result of PTSD and this type of therapy can help deal with those frustrating emotions. Also, if you are considering attending a post traumatic stress disorder treatment center this may be an appropriate time to discuss the details with your family.
  3. Exposure Therapy – This type of therapy teaches a person to cope with past traumatic memories. By discussing painful memories over and over again with a therapist, exposure therapy enables a person to maintain control over these memories. “Desensitization” and “flooding” are techniques involved in this therapy type.
  4. Medication – Antidepressant medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a popular form of medication used to treat PTSD. They are called SSRIs because they give extra serotonin to the brain, a chemical often low in those with depression. Drug types which are popular include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and citalopram (Celexa). Other drugs which may be used include nefazodone (Serzone), clomipramine (Anafranil), and zolpidem (Ambien).
  5. Group Therapy – In many cases of PTSD, talking with someone who has shared a similar experience or who is having similar emotions can be helpful. Group therapy encourages this and the development of strong friendships with these people. Often times such a release of stress helps a person to overcome PTSD, build up self-esteem, and put a greater amount of trust in other people.
  6. Psychotherapy – This type of therapy typically begins with a process called “debriefing” which is a conversation regarding the events of the trauma. The closer to the trauma this conversation occurs, the better. Throughout the rest of this treatment, a therapist will help you to cope with complications associated with PTSD.

If a person suffers from both PTSD and another problem such as chemical dependency, a mental health problem, or depression treatment is more effective if these problems are treated together. In most cases, PTSD therapy lasts no longer than 6 months unless complications arise. Such complications may extend therapy for up to 2 years.

Post traumatic stress disorder treatment is recommended if you or a loved one is suffering from the complications of PTSD. These PTSD treatment centers offer PTSD therapy and often have additional specialized programs available to residents. Call a PTSD treatment facility now and find recovery today.

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This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for medical advice. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and this content is to provide an overall understanding of substance use disorders. These disorders are very complex, and this post does not take into account the unique circumstances for every individual. For specific questions about your health needs or that of a loved one, seek the help of a healthcare professional.