Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after you experience any kind of physical or emotional trauma. It can be triggered by a range of experiences, including violence, physical or emotional abuse, childhood abuse, bullying, war, natural disasters, accidents and more.
If you’re experiencing PTSD, we want you to know that you’re not alone. This disorder affects approximately 1 million Australians every year.
When PTSD develops, it’s different for everyone, some people are affected immediately after a traumatic event, others develop symptoms years later.
The symptoms associated with PTSD can make going about your everyday life difficult. Feelings of isolation are common and if you’re suffering from PTSD you can experience other mental health issues such as severe anxiety and stress.
Symptoms of PTSD
The physical and psychological symptoms of PTSD include:
PHYSICAL
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Insomnia and changed sleep patterns
- Muscle aches and pains
- Extreme alertness
- Anxiousness and worry
- Sexual dysfunction
- Chronic muscle patterns
- Tachycardia
PSYCHOLOGICAL
- Nightmares
- Random negative or intrusive thoughts
- Visual image of the traumatic event
- Concentration and memory loss
- Disorientation and confusion
- Mood swings
- Fear about certain things
- Irritability
- Irrational thinking
- Shame
- Panic attacks
- Survivors guilt
- Depression and anxiety
- Detachment from close friends and family
- Emotional escapism and numbing
If you’re diagnosed with PTSD you could also develop other unhealthy habits to escape your feelings. These could include:
- Alcohol abuse
- Drug dependency
- Sex or process addiction
- Gambling
- OCD
- Eating disorders
Managing PTSD
When should you seek professional help for PTSD?
If PTSD symptoms are affecting your everyday life, at work or home, we believe you should seek professional help immediately. If it’s influencing the way you form relationships, you’re experiencing severe anxiety or depression, suffering from terrifying flashbacks or nightmares, or you are using alcohol or drugs to escape, it’s time to seek additional support.
It’s important to seek help as early as possible. It can take time to recover from traumatic events, whether it’s a current trauma or a trauma from your past. If you have a dual diagnosis, it’s vital to address the trauma as well as any other addictions or mental health issues you are facing.
PTSD treatment at Salt Recovery
We understand everyone heals at their own pace and it takes time to recover from any kind of trauma. For some, it’s not easy to recognise PTSD and we know it can be frightening to confront these traumatic events alone.
At Salt Recovery we have created a safe environment, where you’ll be continually supported by an experienced trauma specialist. The program is tailored to suit your individual situation and recovery needs, and we’re there for you every step of the way. Our team of professionals will support you during the program and nurture you throughout the journey, from beginning to end.
If you’re experiencing PTSD, let us help you overcome your trauma in a safe and comfortable way. Contact Salt Recovery for more information.
