PTSD Treatment

Trauma can affect anyone, regardless of when, where, and how it occurs. Typically, we are not prepared to handle the emotional or mental effects that follow it, which can lead to worsening symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) over time.

PTSD affects millions of people across the UK, with an estimated 4 in 100 people suffering from it, which includes children, teens, and adults. According to PTSD UK, between 50-70% of people experienced a traumatic event in their lives, and about 20% developed PTSD.

Here at PROMIS, we provide a comprehensive treatment program for PTSD that features thorough assessments, therapy, pharmacological interventions, support groups, and holistic methods to help you overcome your condition.

Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that arises following the experience of one or more traumatic events. These incidents may include actual or perceived threats to life, serious injuries, instances of sexual violence, involvement in warfare—whether as a combatant or civilian—natural disasters, man-made catastrophes, or significant vehicular accidents.

While individuals may exhibit varying clinical manifestations of PTSD symptoms, a majority observe notable shifts in their cognitive processes, emotional states, and behaviours. In particular, they might encounter intrusive thoughts, engage in avoidance behaviour, experience negative mood changes, and show heightened brain arousal and activity.

In some cases, symptoms of PTSD may not manifest right away, but they can emerge within the first three months after exposure to trauma.

Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD, or CPTSD, is associated with persistent traumatic events such as childhood abuse and domestic violence. In the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledged Complex PTSD (CPTSD) as a separate clinical diagnosis.

It has symptoms similar to PTSD but also includes three additional features: negative self-view (like feeling worthless), trouble managing emotions (such as anger), and difficulties in relationships.

Since CPTSD and PTSD have many clinical similarities, experts still recommend a course of trauma-focused psychological treatment as the main evidence-based treatment option for both conditions.

MEET THE TEAM

What Causes PTSD?

Research and clinical observations indicate that not everyone who has directly experienced or witnessed a traumatic event will develop a diagnosable case of PTSD.

While the precise causes of PTSD are still not fully understood, certain factors may heighten an individual’s susceptibility to developing the condition, such as multiple direct exposure or witnessing a traumatic event.

In addition, genetics and personality traits also play a vital role in making an individual at risk for PTSD. For instance, people with a family history of PTSD or similar stress-related disorders are more likely to develop PTSD themselves later on. Furthermore, certain personality traits, like anxiety and difficulty managing emotions, are linked to PTSD.

Types of Traumatic Events

People with PTSD have direct experience or exposure or even witnessed a traumatic event that contributes to the development of the condition. Some of these negative events may include:

Combat and Military Trauma

Military personnel who have experienced combat situations or other traumatic events during their service can develop PTSD – this may include direct exposure to warfare, witnessing the injury or death of others, or being involved in life-threatening situations.

Physical or Sexual Assault

Those who have been victims of physical or sexual assault, whether as children or adults, are at risk of developing PTSD, which consequently leaves lasting psychological and emotional scars.

Natural Disasters

Surviving natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, or wildfires can be highly distressing and lead to the development of PTSD. The loss of homes and belongings or simply witnessing the devastation can be traumatic.

Serious Accidents

Being involved in or witnessing a severe accident, such as a car crash, can also influence the condition. The sudden and unexpected nature of such an event, coupled with potential injuries or loss of life, can have a lasting impact.

Childhood Abuse And Neglect

Children who experience physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, as well as neglect, are also vulnerable to developing PTSD.

How Do I Know If I Have PTSD?

Many of us have experienced a negative event at some point in our lives. If you are manifesting the following signs and symptoms, you might be suffering from PTSD.

Intrusion Symptoms

Someone with PTSD experiences persistent, unwanted memories of the traumatic incident, troubling dreams associated with the trauma, flashbacks that make them feel or behave as though the traumatic event is happening once more, as well as emotional distress and physical responses triggered by both internal and external cues of the traumatic event.

Avoidance Symptoms

They may also constantly avoid their distressing thoughts, memories, feelings, or any external reminders or cues related to a traumatic event. They exert extra effort to distract or keep busy to avoid thinking about the traumatic event.

Negative Alterations in Cognition and Mood

People with PTSD often struggle to recall certain aspects of their traumatic experiences. Furthermore, they frequently exhibit negative emotions, including fear, guilt, and shame.

Alterations in Arousal and Reactivity

They may also exhibit signs of irritability, experience episodes of anger, engage in self-destructive behaviours, display heightened alertness, struggle with concentration, and have sleep problems.

We offer a wide range of mental health programmes to suit everyone’s needs. This includes counselling for depression or anxiety, a 24-hour telephone helpline, and a range of workshops.

How We Treat PTSD at PROMIS

In recent decades, the range of treatments for PTSD has expanded significantly. Here at PROMIS, our approach includes a comprehensive intervention program. Our experts employ effective treatment strategies that are evidence-based and reduce the symptoms of PTSD, expediting recovery and enhancing overall treatment results.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) is a form of talk therapy that can help you deal with the harmful effects of early trauma. This therapy is specially designed for young people facing post-traumatic stress and mood issues due to sexual abuse, physical abuse, violence, or loss. TF CBT is a short-term treatment that usually lasts between eight and 25 sessions. It can be done in various settings, such as inpatient facilities and outpatient clinics.

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy is recognized as one of the leading psychotherapies for those suffering from PTSD. This therapeutic approach aims to assist you in reprocessing traumatic memories by recalling them while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movement, which helps reduce emotional distress.

Group Therapy

Many individuals who have gone through trauma or show PTSD symptoms may feel reluctant to talk about their experiences, even with family, due to worries about being judged or dismissed. Therefore, participating in a treatment program like group therapy can be very helpful for those with PTSD.

This group setting is facilitated by a therapist and allows people with similar issues to connect, providing emotional support and understanding. It also improves treatment results by fostering empathy, lessening feelings of loneliness, encouraging personal development, and facilitating mutual learning.

Medication

Typically, healthcare providers prescribe SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) for PTSD. They are the most frequently used antidepressants because they have fewer side effects. SSRIs help by preventing serotonin from being reabsorbed into the nerve cells that released it. People with acute PTSD often use medication for six months up to a year, while those with chronic conditions may require a longer duration of medication.

Reclaim Your Mental Wellness

The effects of PTSD can be severe, and the growing numbers are worrying. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, whether you’re diagnosed already or not, it is essential to seek help from professionals for proper guidance and treatment.

We understand that taking the leap to ask for help may be difficult, but know that our mental health professionals at PROMIS are here to assist you in overcoming your condition and gaining control of your mental wellness.

Our qualified and highly trained professionals are ready to develop a tailored treatment program to meet your needs.