PTSD is defined by the Mayo Clinic as follows.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s caused by an extremely stressful or terrifying event — either being part of it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
In addition, the Cleveland Clinic states:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event. It involves symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, negative thoughts and beliefs, hypervigilance and more. The main treatment for PTSD is psychotherapy (talk therapy).
It adds:
People with PTSD have intense and intrusive thoughts and feelings related to the experience that last long after the event. PTSD involves stress responses like:
- Anxiety, depressed mood, or feelings of guilt or shame.
- Having flashbacks or nightmares.
- Avoiding situations, places and activities related to the traumatic event.
These symptoms cause distress and interfere with your daily functioning.
People with PTSD May Find It Hard to Experience Unfettered Beauty. It’s Always Like Seeing Through Shattered Glass.
What Are Some Alternative Methods for Helping People who Have PTSD?
The Cleveland Clinic mentions only psychotherapy (talk therapy). However, I am aware of other approaches that can be used along with psychotherapy or instead of that treatment. I’ll share eleven examples that are evidence-supported and/or emerging approaches. There are more, but this already is a long post! Continue Reading →
