Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a relatively common condition that can develop in people following a traumatic or life threatening event. Many people will experience a traumatic event in their lifetime however most people recover in the weeks following it. Some people may react in a more severe and enduring way, resulting in a diagnosis of PTSD.
• Studies have reported prevalence rates of PTSD in the general community between 1% and 10% with women being more likely to suffer from PTSD than men.
• The types of traumatic events that can precipitate PTSD include:
- personal trauma resulting from violent crime, sexual or physical abuse,
- having witnessed violent crime, war or terrorist attacks,
- being invoved in accidents such as car accidents, or unexpectedly losing a loved one in an accident
- natural disasters such as floods, cyclones or bushfires.
Symptoms
While some psychological reaction to a traumatic event is normal, PTSD is an extreme and chronic reaction. The symptoms of PTSD can be characterised into persistent re-experiencing of the event (such as intrusive thoughts, dreams and flashbacks of the event), avoidance and numbing (characterised by efforts to avoid thoughts, feelings and memories of the event and a decreased interest in significant events or people), and increased arousal (characterised by heightened anxiety, moodiness and trouble sleeping). These symptoms persist after the event and cause disturbances in the person’s ability to function socially and occupationally.
A common aspect of PTSD is comorbidity (the experience of two or more psychological conditions simultaneously). Common comorbid conditions are substance abuse and depression.
When to seek treatment
Not all people who experience trauma require treatment. Most are able to recover with the help of family and friends. However, if the event was especially severe, or the person had other problems in their life at the time, survivors may need professional help to restore well-being. A range of mental health professionals can assist.
Untreated PTSD can become a chronic disabling disorder, so it is important that effective diagnosis and treatment is obtained at the earliest opportunity. Help should be sought where the individual:
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Experiences problems which are severe or last for more than a month
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Is constantly on edge or irritable
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Has difficulty responding emotionally to others
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Increasingly uses alcohol or other drugs
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Becomes unusually busy to avoid dealing with issues
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Has a strong need to share experiences, but no-one is available or able to listen
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms and the type of events that initiated the condition. If you or someone you know is suffering the symptoms of PTSD or has been involved in a traumatic event please call our helpline on 03 9886 9377 or 1300 269 438
Helpful links
Healing week starting Sunday February 20th to Saturday 26th February for young guys aged 12-16years.
