Understanding PTSD Symptoms:
A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding PTSD symptoms is a crucial first step toward lasting mental health recovery. Read on to learn more.

What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone who has undergone a traumatic event. In fact, in the United States alone, as many as 12 million adults experience PTSD in any given year.¹

Despite its prevalence, PTSD is often misunderstood, leading to delayed or ineffective treatment for many individuals. This can lead to many other struggles and co-occurring disorders as well, including depression, anxiety, or addiction.²

While there are many ways that PTSD can manifest, there are four main symptoms of PTSD that many individuals experience, including:

Intrusive Thoughts and Flashbacks

People with PTSD often encounter distressing memories of the traumatic event. These intrusive thoughts may be flashbacks, vivid nightmares, or distressing memories. All this can be an overwhelming experience for both the mind and the body.

A sound, smell, or sight linked to the trauma can trigger these episodes, making it feel as if the event is happening again.

Avoidance Behaviors

To manage the distressing memories, many people with PTSD engage in avoidance behaviors. Avoidance can also be internal, and may include things like trying to block out thoughts, memories, or feelings linked to the trauma.

For example, someone may become numb or detached from others, or they might avoid places, activities, or people that remind them of the trauma. While avoidance can provide temporary relief, it can restrict one’s life and the healing process.

Negative Thoughts and Feelings

PTSD symptoms often bring a wave of negative emotions. These include guilt, shame, and intense sadness. While some may blame themselves or others for the trauma, while others might feel disconnected from their surroundings. They may also lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.

Additionally, PTSD often causes difficulties with memory. This memory loss is due to the brain’s response to extreme stress.

Hyperarousal Symptoms

Individuals with PTSD also often experience hyperarousal. This means they remain on constant alert for potential danger. It can show up as irritability, anger, trouble sleeping, or a strong startle response.

It can be exhausting and further impact one’s daily functioning. Additionally, it can affect everything from relationships to job performance.

Some examples of hyperarousal symptoms include:

A person might become startled by loud noises, such as a car backfiring or fireworks, as if they are in danger.
An individual may have difficulty sleeping. Many individuals experience insomnia due to racing thoughts or nightmares. They may also wake up during the night, making it challenging to get restorative sleep.
Irritability and outbursts of anger are also symptoms of hyperarousal. Someone with PTSD symptoms might snap at friends or family over minor issues. They might also struggle to control their emotional responses.

The constant state of hypervigilance can lead to exhaustion, as the body remains in a “fight-or-flight” mode, even when there is no immediate threat. This can even cause health problems, like headaches and digestive issues, and it can also weaken the immune system.³

Types of Traumatic Events That Can Lead to PTSD Symptoms

PTSD symptoms can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Here are some common types of trauma that can cause PTSD:

Combat or Military Experiences

Veterans are often at a higher risk of developing PTSD than the general population. This is due to exposure to life-threatening situations, violence, or combat deaths. Loud noises, crowded spaces, or even certain smells can act as triggers.

Accidents

Serious accidents, like car crashes, workplace injuries, or plane crashes, can cause PTSD. Survivors often relive the incident or feel anxiety when they encounter similar situations.

Natural Disasters

Survivors of events like hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, or wildfires may struggle with PTSD symptoms. They may especially struggle when faced with similar weather conditions or media reports of the same instance.

Violence or Abuse

Those who have faced or seen physical violence are at high risk for PTSD symptoms. This includes victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault. Everyday situations, people, or objects can trigger memories of the event.

How Triggers Can Affect Individuals with PTSD

Triggers vary based on a person’s trauma. They generally fall into two categories: external and internal triggers.

External triggers are stimuli from the surrounding environment. Some common examples of these types of triggers include:

Sights: Seeing someone who resembles a perpetrator or a location where the trauma occurred.
Sounds: Loud noises, alarms, or music associated with the traumatic event.
Smells: Certain smells can transport someone back to the scene of their trauma. This could include smoke, alcohol, or particular foods.
Dates: Anniversaries of the trauma can trigger intense emotional reactions, even years later.

Internal Triggers for PTSD

On the other hand, internal triggers are cues that come from within the person. These may include:

Thoughts and Memories: Recalling the traumatic event can trigger flashbacks or overwhelming anxiety.
Emotions: Feelings of anger, fear, guilt, or sadness can remind the person of the trauma.
Physical Sensations: Pain, discomfort, or physical tension can mimic sensations felt during the traumatic event. This might cause the person to feel as though they are reliving the experience.

Coping With PTSD Symptoms: Types of Therapy

While PTSD may feel like a heavy burden, effective treatments are available to help individuals heal. Here’s a closer look at some of the most effective types of therapy used in PTSD treatment:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns. It helps individuals understand the link between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to empower them to challenge irrational or unhelpful beliefs related to their trauma.⁴

During CBT sessions, people work with a therapist to explore their thoughts and feelings about the trauma. They also learn to identify and challenge automatic negative thoughts. Then, they can replace them with healthier, more balanced thinking.

For example, someone might struggle with blaming themselves for an assault. So, they might work on reframing those thoughts so that they can reach the conclusion that they were not at fault.

Creating a Safe Space for Healing Through CBT

CBT helps people reduce the intensity of PTSD symptoms while also confronting their fears in a safe space to break the cycle of avoidance.

This approach can also include exposure therapy. In exposure therapy, individuals face their trauma-related memories or triggers in small steps with the goal to reduce their power over time.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a form of therapy that helps people process and integrate traumatic memories. It uses guided eye movements or other rhythmic, bilateral stimulation. This includes hand tapping or auditory tones. EMDR assumes that trauma can overwhelm the brain’s ability to process information.⁵

During an EMDR session, the therapist asks the person to recall a distressing memory and then guide their eye movements while potentially also using another form of bilateral stimulation. This process helps the brain reprocess the traumatic event, making it less distressing.

The individual learns to associate the memory with more positive beliefs. This might look like “I am safe now” instead of “I am in danger.” EMDR can reduce the vividness and emotional charge of traumatic memories, and it can also help people gain a sense of control over their trauma-related symptoms.

One of the key advantages of EMDR is that it does not force the person to describe their trauma in detail. This makes it a suitable option for those who find it difficult to talk about their experiences.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Researchers developed DBT as a treatment for borderline personality disorder. Since then, mental health professionals have adapted it to address PTSD symptoms as well. It is especially helpful for symptoms of poor emotional control and self-harm.

DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to focus on building skills for managing intense emotions.⁶

Components of DBT

There are four key components that make up DBT, which include:

Mindfulness: This teaches individuals to stay present in the moment. They learn to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Distress Tolerance: This provides skills for coping with emotional distress in healthy ways. This could look like using self-soothing techniques, or it might include distracting oneself during moments of intense emotion.
Emotional Regulation: This helps individuals understand and manage their emotional responses. This reduces impulsive behaviors and increases emotional stability.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: This improves communication skills and develops healthier relationships to support recovery.

DBT teaches practical skills to manage PTSD symptoms in daily life. It emphasizes the balance between accepting one’s experiences and striving for change while offering a compassionate approach to addressing self-destructive behaviors and fostering resilience.

Finding the Right Combination of PTSD Treatment Options

Choosing the right therapy for PTSD symptoms is crucial, as it can have a significant impact on recovery. The therapies listed above are often combined to make a complete treatment plan for an individual’s needs.

At Continuum Outpatient Center, our experienced mental health professionals work in tandem with clients to determine the best therapeutic approach for their needs. Our team works hard to provide a supportive and safe environment for healing.

While PTSD symptoms are challenging, there are effective coping strategies that one can learn. These can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Your mental health professional may combine any of the following therapeutic modalities into your treatment:

Therapy

One of the most effective ways to address PTSD symptoms is through therapy. As mentioned, cognitive-behavioral therapy helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns, and exposure therapy allows people to confront and process their traumatic memories.

A trained therapist can help individuals desensitize to the trauma’s emotional charge.

Medication

In some cases, a professional may prescribe medication to ease symptoms of PTSD. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids can help people manage their symptoms.

Support Groups

Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can be validating and comforting. Support groups let individuals share their stories and gain insights. They can also build a sense of community, helping them feel less isolated.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness practices can help individuals stay grounded and reduce stress. That might look like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. These techniques allow for better emotional regulation, and individuals can practice them at any moment when distressing thoughts arise.

Healthy Lifestyle Practices

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep are vital for mental health. These lifestyle choices can enhance well-being and resilience, and they can also help individuals manage the physical symptoms of hyperarousal.

Continuum: Your Resource for Recovery

Navigating PTSD requires a comprehensive and individualized approach. That’s where Continuum Outpatient Center excels. We offer:

Comprehensive Treatment Plans

Continuum Outpatient Center customizes treatment for each patient. It considers their needs and symptoms. The center provides holistic, patient-centered therapy in individual, group, and trauma-focused sessions.

Experienced Mental Health Professionals

Continuum Outpatient Center has skilled mental health specialists focused on trauma and PTSD. This way, we ensure that people get effective treatment, support, and caring help to aid their healing.

Program Types and Overview

Our center offers a range of programs, including outpatient therapy and group therapy sessions. This way, those who need more support than traditional therapy can get more integrated and structured care.

Supportive Environment

Healing from trauma requires a safe and supportive space. At Continuum Outpatient Center individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered to pursue recovery. We also engage family members in the treatment journey, which strengthens relationships and promotes long-term healing.

Reach Out To Us Today

PTSD symptoms can have a profound effect on every aspect of life. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals can reclaim control and find peace. Recognizing the symptoms is the first crucial step, and Continuum Outpatient Center can provide the support and care you need.

If you or someone you know is experiencing PTSD symptoms, don’t wait to seek help to start the healing process. Contact Continuum Outpatient Center today to start your journey to recovering and reclaiming your life from PTSD symptoms.

Resources

Questions About Treatment?

Reach out to our knowledgeable and compassionate Continuum Outpatient Center team for the guidance and support you need for sustainable recovery. We’re here to help you build a foundation for long-term happiness, wellness, and healing.

Understanding PTSD Symptoms: A Comprehensive Guide