June is PTSD Awareness Month
June is National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month, and nearly 3.5% of U.S. adults are affected by this psychiatric disorder. This month, we want to continue to raise public awareness about issues related to PTSD and help ensure that those suffering receive proper treatment.
What is PTSD?
PTSD, also known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault. Symptoms associated with PTSD might include:
- Distressing dreams
- Flashbacks
- Frightening thoughts
- Severe emotional distress
- Feeling emotionally numb
- Easily startled or frightened
- Trouble sleeping and concentrating
- Overwhelming guilt or shame
Facts About PTSD
Here are important facts about PTSD, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America:
- About 7 or 8 out of every 100 people will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
- 3.6% of the U.S. adult population experienced post-traumatic stress disorder in the past year.
- 67% of people exposed to mass violence have been shown to develop PTSD, a higher rate than those exposed to natural disasters or other types of traumatic events.
Treatment for PTSD
There are various forms of therapy that may help patients with PTSD, including:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has significantly improved functioning and quality of life. CBT is based on teaching the individual coping skills so that they can learn to change their own thinking, problematic emotions and behavior.
Interpersonal Therapy
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on relieving symptoms by improving interpersonal functioning. This therapy works by focusing on managing the conflict that is causing depression, anxiety or PTSD.
Problem-Solving Therapy
Problem-solving therapy is a type of treatment that helps teach individuals to manage the negative effects of stressful events in life effectively. In addition, problem-solving therapy helps the individual generate creative means of dealing with problems and identify any barriers to reaching one’s goals.
Seek Treatment for PTSD
We understand how challenging it may be to live with PTSD. At Mile High Psychiatry, we find a combination of both therapy and medication to be a suitable treatment for PTSD in children and adults.
Let us help you. Request an appointment today!
