Trauma & PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related conditions often develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Consequently, symptoms may include flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Moreover, these conditions can affect anyone at any age, significantly impacting daily functioning and quality of life. For more detailed information, visit the National Institute of Mental Health.

Symptoms of Trauma & PTSD 

The DSM-V outlines Trauma and PTSD broadly because trauma and its effects can vary greatly from person to person. Some of the more common symptoms of Trauma & PTSD include:

• Recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic event(s). That is to say, these memories frequently intrude into the individual’s thoughts.
• Recurrent distressing dreams in which the content and/or effect of the dream are related to the traumatic event(s). Similarly, these dreams often mirror the traumatic experiences.
• Dissociative reactions (e.g., flashbacks) in which the individual feels or acts as if the traumatic event(s) were recurring. Specifically, these reactions may occur on a spectrum, with the most extreme expression being a complete loss of awareness of present surroundings.
• Intense or prolonged psychological distress at exposure to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). Additionally, such distress is triggered by cues that evoke memories of the trauma.
• Marked physiological reactions to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). For example, these reactions include significant physical responses to trauma-related cues.
• Irritable behavior and angry outbursts (with little or no provocation), typically expressed as verbal or physical aggression toward people or objects. Furthermore, this behavior often manifests as aggression directed at others or objects.
• Reckless or self-destructive behavior. Moreover, this includes actions that endanger oneself or others.
• Hyper-vigilance. As a result, individuals may exhibit an excessive state of alertness and heightened awareness of their surroundings.
• Exaggerated startle response. In particular, individuals may react with an intense startle reflex to unexpected stimuli.
• Problems with concentration. Generally, these issues can significantly impair the individual’s ability to focus and maintain attention.
• Sleep disturbances (e.g., difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless sleep).

Trauma is Unique

Not everyone experiences PTSD or trauma in the same way, so your symptoms may be completely different from someone you know. If you believe you are experiencing PTSD, contact us today to get started on your journey to recovery.

At AIM, we understand that mental health is not just about what’s happening in your mind or body; it’s also about the environment and circumstances of your life. Our comprehensive approach to treating Trauma and PTSD considers all these aspects; therefore, it provides the support and resources necessary for effective recovery.

Cognitive Therapies

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT, along with Cognitive Therapy, are forms of talk therapy where patients work with their therapists to identify and replace negative behaviors with positive ones. This therapy also focuses on developing healthier ways of managing trauma-related beliefs to break problematic cycles of behavior.
• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): CPT, a specialized CBT form, modifies dysfunctional beliefs related to trauma. Consequently, it improves mental health and functioning.

Other Mental Health Therapies

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to reprocess traumatic memories, reducing emotional impact and distress associated with those memories. The process allows individuals to revisit traumatic memories without emotional distress.
• Medication Management & Psychiatry: Although PTSD often doesn’t require medication, psychiatric drugs can improve symptoms. For this reason, our team carefully evaluates and manages medications to support trauma responses.
• Group Therapy: Group Therapy provides a supportive community environment for those with PTSD or trauma. Additionally, when combined with individual therapy, group therapy fosters a sense of safety and reminds individuals they are not alone.

We are here to help. To that end, we look forward to creating a custom treatment plan that both meets your needs and fits your schedule.