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PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
A trauma is the impact felt when a person is confronted with a very frightening
or threatening event that is outside the range of normal human experience.
The event may be an isolated incident (i.e., devastating car accident,
rape, criminal victimization) or a prolonged exposure to high-stress circumstances
(i.e., combat, prisoner-of-war captivity, repeated sexual abuse), and
even a witnessed occurrence, such as the observation of a murder. The
result is often a strong and persistent impression on the person, in which
a cluster of symptoms may be present: hypervigilance (heightened awareness
of the environment and alertness to possible signs of danger), increased
startle response (easily startled or "jumpy"), recurrent vivid
memories associated with the event(s) or even the sense of reliving the
event(s) ("flashbacks"), distrust or suspiciousness, sleep and/or
appetite disturbance, recurrent nightmares, substance abuse ("self-medicating"),
and mood disturbance (i.e., irritability/anger, anxiety, depression).
The experience of some or all of these symptoms comprises the syndrome
called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or Post Traumatic Stress
Syndrome (PTSS).
Despite education and awareness about PTSD, many sufferers
do not know exactly what it is or what help is available.
Furthermore, many of those with PTSD are reluctant for one
reason or another to seek help (avoidance of the memories,
pessimism about getting help, an overriding desire to help
oneself and not rely on others). Today, many therapists
and survivor groups are available to assist those who are
struggling with the after-effects of trauma. Some trauma
reactions may be acute, as in lasting less than 6 months,
and others may last longer and possibly persist for years.
This suffering adds further tragedy to the situation.
Help begins with a phone call.
CTA is a network of experienced therapists across the New
York metro area. We strive to match you with the right therapist
for you, to help you to effectively manage and resolve issues
related to PTSD. To inquire about an appointment, please
call us at (212) 258-2577.
Keywords: PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Syndome.
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