Psychological Treatment for PTSD

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has gained a lot of attention over the last few years because of the number of soldiers who return from Iraq diagnosed with PTSD. It may be surprising to know that PTSD may  occur in civilian populations as well and is sometimes present after motor vehicle accidents, industrial injuries, diagnosis of serious illness, natural disaster, physical abuse, and other traumatic events. Fortunately, many evidenced based cognitive therapies have recently been developed and have been found to be highly effective in treating PTSD.

When to seek treatment: In most people who experience a traumatic event, traumatic stress responses typically clear up without treatment. However, some people (5-10%) have difficulty resolving the issue without help. In fact, if symptoms are present 6-12 months after a traumatic event, research indicates that symptoms will probably not subside on their own. Studies also suggest that those with partial symptoms of PTSD, who do not meet full diagnostic criteria, can also benefit psychologically from treatment.

February Newsletter

You Might Also Enjoy...

The Importance of Sleep in Managing Chronic Pain

While sleep can pose unique challenges for chronic pain patients, it’s also an essential part of managing chronic pain. Read on to learn more about the relationship between high-quality sleep and managing chronic pain.

7 Foods That Fight Inflammation

Do you need to reduce your body’s levels of inflammation? Your diet can make a big difference, whether you have arthritis or an autoimmune condition. Keep reading to learn more about the right foods to eat to fight inflammation.

Chronic Pain? Consider Trigger Point Injections

Does chronic pain keep you up all night or keep you from living life to the fullest? Learn more about trigger point injections and how this treatment may be able to get you back on your feet if you live with chronic pain.