Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common anxiety disorder that affects 8 out of 100 women and 4 out of 100 men.1 Its symptoms can range from mild nervousness to a full-blown panic attack, hyperventilation, and feeling as if you are going to die. If you suspect a friend or loved one is showing signs of PTSD, understanding their personal symptoms and triggers can help you support them during difficult times.
At Arkview Recovery, we support individuals who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and are ready to learn more effective coping strategies that promote long-lasting recovery. We have residential and outpatient treatment programs to support our patients throughout their entire recovery experience. Moreover, we tailor each program to the individual and include behavioral therapies and medical support to ease any addiction withdrawals, cravings, and other disruptive symptoms.
To discover the benefits of our PTSD treatment program, call 717.744.0756 today to start a healing conversation.
Understanding What Triggers PTSD Symptoms
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a type of mental health disorder caused by living through a traumatic experience, like a fatal car accident, combat, bullying, or domestic abuse. Symptoms are based on the experience and may not begin for several months or years after the original incident.
A soldier can be triggered by a loud explosion or flashes of light that make it feel like they are in the middle of battle again. A person can be triggered by the presence of an individual who abused them or reminds them of their abuser. Even certain smells can trigger a person’s PTSD symptoms.
Here are some other common triggers of PTSD:
- Seeing the place where an accident or sudden death occurred
- Being touched unexpectedly or in certain places
- An increase in stress
- An anniversary of a specific traumatic date
- Being in a social setting that reminds them of a past trauma
- A friend or loved one being diagnosed with COVID-19
At Arkview Recovery, our dedicated team is ready to aid you in managing your PTSD symptoms and preventing triggers from overwhelming you. Our personalized programs are based on your unique symptoms and focus on replacing negative behaviors through cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma therapy, and other beneficial therapies.
Common and Unique Signs of PTSD
Treating mental health disorders like PTSD is not like treating the common cold. There is no cure, and symptoms are highly personalized, as is the way each person copes with their symptoms.
Common symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, developing a negative self-image, and avoiding certain places or people. Insomnia, irritability, and frequent mood swings are also common with PTSD, as is being hypervigilance or always being on alert, which can be very mentally and physically draining.
Other symptoms include:
- Fast heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Upset stomach
- Trembling
- Heavy sweating
- An overwhelming urge to leave wherever you are
- Panic
- Confusion
- Fear
Men and women often experience the symptoms of PTSD similarly. However, there are certain symptoms that are gender specific.
Signs of PTSD in Men
Men are at a lower risk of experiencing PTSD than women. However, that may simply be because men are more likely to internalize their symptoms or never admit to having a problem. Some common signs of PTSD in men include experiencing more anger and aggression. They have a higher rate of substance abuse and are prone to headaches, stomach issues, and muscle tension.
At work, men will experience a decrease in work performance and have a harder time concentrating for long periods of time. This can result in increasing their anger and frustration.
Signs of PTSD in Women
Women are twice as likely to experience anxiety and will have more emotional or psychological symptoms. The signs of PTSD in women include depression, anxiety, and guilt, along with a higher level of intrusive thoughts or negative self-talk. Women will also experience more flashbacks than men.
Women are slightly more likely to talk with a behavioral therapist about their PTSD symptoms than men.
Do you recognize any of these signs or symptoms in a friend or loved one? If so, the best option for them is to work with an experienced therapist through an accredited mental health treatment program.
Visit Arkview Recovery Today to Begin Healing Through Our PTSD Treatment Program
Arkview Recovery is a full-service mental health treatment facility that welcomes individuals living with PTSD. Our discreet location is close to Philadelphia, Lancaster, and Pittsburgh. Moreover, our team always strives to create genuine, long-lasting recovery for each patient.
To have a conversation about treating the signs of PTSD and talk with a behavioral therapist, call 717.744.0756 today or use our online contact form to schedule a tour.
Source:
1. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Kyle is Lead Therapist at Arkview Recovery Center. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Temple University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He has years of experience working directly with individuals who suffer from addiction and mental health disorders. Being in long term recovery himself, Kyle is very passionate about the recovery process. He is heavily involved in the local recovery community in which he enjoys his commitments to service and giving back. His specialty is in group therapy and developing clinical staff. Kyle brings to Arkview a holistic approach to recovery, specializing in mindfulness, reality therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
