Individuals who have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) know just how debilitating the symptoms can be. However, there are multiple ways in which these symptoms can manifest, and sufferers can experience the aftereffects of trauma in many different ways. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM for short) lists several major categories which more specifically define the type of PTSD symptoms one is experiencing. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these to better understand how to heal moving forward.
Avoidance Symptoms – PTSD that manifests with avoidance symptoms includes actively taking steps to avoid anything that will trigger discomfort or recollection of previously experienced trauma. Plain and simple, the individual is terrified of reliving what they’ve escaped. They never want to feel that way again. Therefore, they choose – either very consciously or somewhat subconsciously – to avoid.
The problem with avoidance is that, in essence, this is just a suppression of symptoms and emotions. Eventually, refusing to acknowledge what has happened can cause the individual to ‘snap.’ At the very least, it hinders recovery. We must practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in order to effectively heal in the post-trauma period. Thus, we have to acknowledge and accept what has happened to us in order to identify ways to cope with this.
Sometimes, therapists will push a PTSD sufferer to face triggers head-on in a direct attempt to ‘get over’ any associated fear. It is important to note that doing so too soon in the recovery process can be extremely counterproductive, pushing the client further into reclusion. Coaxing this individual to gradually confront his or her fears can prove to be very positive, but the process should never be rushed. It’s better to gradually increase exposure over time.
Hyperarousal Symptoms – Hyperarousal symptoms include sudden outbursts of anger and marked irritability, being startled easily, and sleep deprivation/insomnia, among others. Essentially, the trauma victim is constantly on edge, paranoid, jumpy, or something can occur at any point in time that’ll automatically set off these symptoms. Hyperarousal PTSD sufferers may have a noticeably difficult time regulating mood.
It is pertinent that those who experience these symptoms work to find peace and serenity post-trauma. This means practicing mindfulness techniques and working to center thoughts on the present rather than constantly focusing on the past or worrying about what the future may bring. The individual needs to realize that the trauma is a thing of the past, they survived, they are safe and in a better place, before they can heal and move on with their lives in a meaningful way.
Re-experience – This is when the PTSD sufferer continues to relive the trauma either by way of nightmares and disturbed sleep, intense flashbacks or via panic attacks. The re-experience is terrifying and sends the individual right back to the traumatic state. They feel as if they cannot escape. Certain memories are simply too dire to suppress. These sufferers, much like those who avoid, try to steer clear of triggers at all costs. However, triggers seem to be everywhere. They feel as if they’ve actively taken sufficient steps to avoid but will be wielded right back to panic if they encounter a trigger they hadn’t accounted for. Stories in the media or movie plots, for instance, can instantly start a debilitating re-experiencing episode.
Often, the best way to turn off symptoms is to practice “grounding techniques.” Playing loud music, turning the TV off (and changing the channel if a trigger is evident), and sniffing a strong scent such as peppermint or coffee beans can all be used to bring the individual back to reality. Mindfulness should be practiced daily to further ground the mind, body, and spirit, and ward off and better understand future re-experiences.
Negative thoughts or feelings – Most commonly, PTSD manifests in negative thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. Constant mood changes are evident, and as is chronic depression or anxiety. There is a variety of techniques that can be utilized by a psycho-behavioral standpoint for mitigating symptoms associated with these disorders, including some of the above-mentioned techniques. Selective drug therapy is also often included in a treatment plan.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, are finding it difficult to cope, and these symptoms are causing significant distress and disruption, please do not hesitate to seek professional help. You are not alone! The best way to heal is to be open and honest and discuss your symptoms with a licensed practitioner. Many blessings, always!