Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), commonly referred to as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) when it becomes chronic, is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it's normal to experience a range of emotions and reactions after trauma, PTS occurs when these symptoms persist for an extended period and significantly impact daily functioning. The Symptoms of PTS can vary widely and may manifest differently from person to person.
Symptoms of PTS
Re-Experiencing
Individuals may involuntarily relive the traumatic event through intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares. These re-experiencing symptoms can be intense and distressing, often causing significant emotional and
physical reactions.
Negative Mood
PTS can lead to negative changes in thoughts and beliefs about oneself, others, and the world. Individuals may experience feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others, as well as persistent negative emotions such as fear, anger, or sadness.
Avoidance
Those with PTS may actively avoid reminders of traumatic events, including people, places, activities, or situations that evoke distressing memories. They may also avoid discussing the traumatic experience altogether.
Hyperarousal
PTS can cause individuals to feel constantly on edge or hypervigilant, making it difficult to relax or concentrate. They may experience irritability, anger outbursts, difficulty sleeping, or exaggerated startle responses.
These symptoms can significantly impact various areas of life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being. Individuals with PTS may struggle to maintain social connections, experience disruptions in their ability to work or perform daily tasks and may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse to manage their symptoms.
It's important to note that PTS can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, regardless of age, gender, or background. While military combat is a well-known trigger for PTS, traumatic events such as physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, or serious injuries can also lead to the development of PTS.
Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others. Therefore, our relationships, job performance, what we are willing to do or able to resist, all move in a positive direction.”
~Dr. Francine Shapiro
Treating PTS with EMDR Therapy for Chronic PTSD
Treating PTS with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy** can be particularly effective in preventing the development of chronic PTSD. EMDR Therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that has been extensively researched and found to be highly effective in treating trauma-related symptoms. By engaging in guided bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or taps, EMDR helps individuals process traumatic memories and experiences, reducing their emotional intensity and preventing them from becoming entrenched and chronic.
Early intervention with EMDR Therapy can help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories shortly after the traumatic event, preventing the development of persistent PTSD symptoms. By addressing trauma early on and promoting adaptive processing, EMDR Therapy empowers individuals to regain a sense of control, resilience, and well-being.
The cornerstone approach to our Trauma-Informed care is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. EMDR Therapy is a research-backed treatment method that has shown remarkable effectiveness in helping individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
For all Minnesota Veterans, not dependent on discharge status, Service Members, and Spouses.
Eye Movement Desenstization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Healing is possible.
Providing Free Effective EMDR therapy
For all Minnesota Veterans, not dependent on discharge status, Service Members, and Spouses.
Effective Treatment for trauma & PTSD
12 EMDR Therapy Sessions at NO COST (additional sessions available)
In-Person or Telehealth options
Statewide Network of highly qualified EMDR Therapists in MN
All therapists are extensively trained in Trauma and EMDR)
Therapists are all trained through VRP on understanding military culture and supporting Veterans.
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