Miami PTSD Therapy

Post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, is a serious mental health challenge affecting millions around the world. It is important to recognize that PTSD is not a character flaw but rather a recognized medical issue that requires personalized PTSD therapy. Those in Miami can visit Elevate Psychiatry for supportive and beneficial treatment.

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Basics of PTSD

Those grappling with PTSD find feelings of fear and distress linger and may even worsen with time, affecting their ability to carry out everyday tasks, including work, school, and maintaining relationships.

This anxiety disorder often develops following exposure to a traumatic event (as a witness or direct participant), such as:

Military conflict
Natural catastrophes
Serious accidents
Violent personal attacks
The sudden loss of a close family member
Significant health issues
Abuse (as a child or adult)

The Types of PTSD

The most commonly recognized types of PTSD include:

Uncomplicated PTSD: This is the most commonly diagnosed form of PTSD. It occurs after a single traumatic event and is very responsive to treatment.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD): C-PTSD develops after exposure to multiple traumatic events, such as abuse or military service. It is treatable, although the process may take more time.
Comorbid PTSD: This condition occurs when there is another mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression, with PTSD. Both conditions have to be addressed for successful treatment.

Understanding the different needs of each type of PTSD allows mental health professionals to create PTSD therapy plans catered to individuals.

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Common Symptoms of PTSD

Symptoms of PTSD can be classified into four different categories.

Intrusive Memories

Intrusive symptoms include the constant and unwelcome distressing memories of the traumatic event. Examples include:

Flashbacks (experiencing the event as though it is occurring again)
Disturbing dreams or nightmares
Intense emotional distress when reminded of the event

Avoidance

Symptoms of avoidance are characterized by:

Attempts to steer clear of thoughts, emotions, or discussions related to the event
Avoiding locations, activities, or other people that trigger memories of the incident

Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood

Changes in emotional state, feelings, or thoughts associated with the trauma are common aspects of PTSD. This class of symptoms can cover:

Negative perceptions of oneself or the world
A sense of detachment from family and friends
Difficulty feeling positive emotions

Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions

Symptoms within this group, often referred to as hyperarousal symptoms, can involve reactions such as:

Trouble sleeping
Nightmares
A sense of disconnect from others
Becoming easily irritated
Heightened sensitivity to being startled

What Causes PTSD?

While the precise causes of PTSD are not entirely clear, experts have pinpointed a range of contributing factors. These factors include a combination of environmental, genetic, and psychological influences.

Environmental Factors

Environmental causes can encompass a wide range of situations, such as:

Repeated exposure (childhood abuse or a traumatic job like a paramedic)
Who or what caused the trauma
Any sort of injury that occurred as a result of the trauma
Socioeconomic standing
Educational level
Family dysfunction
General lack of support

Genetic Factors

Genetic factors significantly influence the risk of developing PTSD. A person may be more vulnerable to developing PTSD if people around them have:

Even gender can be a cause; women tend to develop PTSD more than men.

Psychological Factors

While similar to genetic factors, psychological factors focus more on an individual. Psychological factors that can cause PTSD include:

Depression
Anxiety
Substance use
Poor stress management skills
Negative outlook (before the traumatic event happened)

Will I Have PTSD for the Rest of My Life?

Technically, PTSD is a lifelong mental health condition, but with the right treatment, it can be managed into remission. So, while you may still have the condition, its impact on your everyday life can be lessened as long as you stay on your treatment plan.

How long it takes to feel “recovered” will vary by individual.

PTSD Therapy: Treatment That Works

We offer PTSD therapy in Miami and beyond, tailored to each patient’s needs.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy, also known as Psychotherapy, assists patients in comprehending their symptoms, recognizing their triggers, and acquiring techniques to cope with them. PTSD can affect how you think and feel about yourself, and talk therapy offers a supportive environment to undo those negative thoughts. We will work with you to heal a little at a time while managing PTSD symptoms.

Medication Management

Specific medications, including antidepressants, are effective in managing symptoms of PTSD like sadness, anxiety, anger, and emotional numbness. We can create a medication regimen based on your needs, adapting and changing as required.

Treat PTSD with Elevate Psychiatry

We want to help you overcome the challenges associated with PTSD. We’ll work with you to process traumatic events and help you regain control of your life. Your experience is unique, and we will help you find a treatment path that best suits your needs.

Schedule a consultation today