Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic or potentially life-threatening event. This condition can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O., an expert in psychiatry, provides a comprehensive understanding of PTSD, its symptoms, treatments, and answers common questions about this complex disorder. Dr. Goldenberg is based in Santa Monica, but sees patients by telehealth all across California and the State of Alaska.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorist act, war/combat, rape, or other violent personal assaults. People with PTSD may feel stressed or frightened even when they are not in danger.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four types:
Intrusive Memories:
- Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event.
- Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks).
- Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event.
- Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event.
Avoidance:
- Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.
- Avoiding places, activities, or people that remind you of the traumatic event.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood:
- Negative thoughts about yourself, other people, or the world.
- Hopelessness about the future.
- Memory problems, include not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event.
- Difficulty maintaining close relationships.
- Feeling detached from family and friends.
- Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
- Feeling emotionally numb.
Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions:
- Being easily startled or frightened.
- Always being on guard for danger.
- Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior.
- Overwhelming guilt or shame.
Causes and Risk Factors
PTSD can develop at any age. Some factors that increase the risk of developing PTSD include:
- Experiencing intense or long-lasting trauma.
- Having experienced other trauma earlier in life, such as childhood abuse.
- Having a job increases your risk of being exposed to traumatic events, such as military personnel and first responders.
- Having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.
- Lacking a good support system of family and friends.
- Having blood relatives with mental health problems, including anxiety or depression.
Treatment for PTSD
Effective treatments for PTSD include:
Psychotherapy:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients understand and change the thought patterns that lead to harmful behaviors and feelings.
- Exposure Therapy: Helps patients safely face what they find frightening so they can learn to cope with it effectively.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Involves processing distressing memories while focusing on external stimuli like hand movements or tapping.
Medications:
- Antidepressants/anti-anxiety medications, such as sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil), can help control PTSD symptoms.
- Other anti-anxiety medications may help relieve severe anxiety and related problems.
- Prazosin may reduce or suppress trauma-related nightmares.
Self-care:
- Regular physical activity.
- Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
- Connecting with others through support groups or therapy.
Comprehensive Q&A on PTSD
Q: What is the difference between PTSD and regular stress? A: Regular stress is a normal response to challenging situations and usually subsides once the situation is resolved. PTSD, on the other hand, is a severe anxiety disorder that persists long after the traumatic event has ended and can interfere significantly with a person’s daily life.
Q: Can PTSD be cured? A: While there is no definitive cure for PTSD, many people find significant relief through a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care. With proper treatment, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
Q: Who is most likely to develop PTSD? A: While anyone can develop PTSD, individuals who have experienced severe trauma, have a history of other mental health issues or lack strong social support are at higher risk.
Q: How soon after a traumatic event can PTSD symptoms appear? A: PTSD symptoms typically begin within three months of the traumatic event, but sometimes they may not appear until years later.
Q: What should I do if I think I have PTSD? A: If you think you might have PTSD, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional as soon as possible. Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.
Q: Can lifestyle changes help with PTSD? A: Yes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial. Regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and avoiding alcohol and drugs can improve overall mental health and help manage PTSD symptoms.
Q: How can family and friends support someone with PTSD? A: Family and friends can support someone with PTSD by being understanding and patient, encouraging them to seek professional help, offering to accompany them to therapy sessions, and educating themselves about PTSD to better understand what their loved one is going through.
Understanding and addressing PTSD requires a comprehensive approach. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, reach out to a well-trained and experienced psychiatrist like Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O., who can provide an evidence-based evaluation and individualized support and treatment. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and a crucial step toward recovery. Dr. Goldenberg is based in Santa Monica but sees patients by telehealth all across California and the State of Alaska.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.
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Matthew Goldenberg D.O.
2708 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Phone: (424) 276-0777
Business Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday, Sunday: Closed