15 Signs of PTSD| What You MUST Know
Ever wonder if you have PTSD or are you confused about what PTSD is? How do you recognize PTSD? Let’s dive deeper into understand some telltale signs and how you, or someone you love, can get the help needed to thrive once more.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Recognizing the signs of PTSD can help you or a loved one seek timely intervention. In this post, we’ll cover 15 common signs of PTSD and provide actionable steps for getting the help you need.
For people seeking the best, most convenient and effective ketamine therapy from the comfort of their home, Innerwell offers personalized at-home treatment options under the supervision of healthcare professionals so you can get back to the person you used to be.
1. Flashbacks
People with PTSD often experience vivid flashbacks, where they feel like they are reliving the traumatic event. These flashbacks can be triggered by sights, sounds, smells, or other reminders (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
2. Nightmares
Nightmares or disturbing dreams related to the traumatic event are another common symptom. These nightmares can severely disrupt sleep and lead to further anxiety.
3. Avoidance of Reminders
People with PTSD often go out of their way to avoid places, people, or situations that remind them of the traumatic event. This avoidance can interfere with daily life.
4. Hypervigilance
Hypervigilance, or being constantly on edge, is a common sign of PTSD. Individuals may feel like they are in a constant state of alertness, even in safe environments.
5. Emotional Numbness
PTSD can cause individuals to feel emotionally numb or detached from others. They may struggle to experience joy, love, or other positive emotions.
6. Irritability or Anger Outbursts
Sudden irritability or anger outbursts are frequent among those with PTSD. These outbursts can be disproportionate to the situation and can strain relationships (Elbogen et al., 2010).
7. Difficulty Concentrating
Many people with PTSD have trouble concentrating or staying focused on tasks. This can affect work performance, school, or everyday responsibilities.
8. Exaggerated Startle Response
An exaggerated startle response, such as jumping or flinching at sudden noises, is common in PTSD. This heightened reaction is often due to being in a state of constant alertness.
9. Intrusive Thoughts
Unwanted and distressing thoughts about the traumatic event often intrude on daily life. These thoughts can be difficult to control and may cause significant distress.
10. Feelings of Guilt or Shame
Survivor’s guilt, or feelings of blame related to the traumatic event, is a common symptom of PTSD. Individuals may feel ashamed for surviving or blame themselves for what happened.
11. Social Withdrawal
People with PTSD may withdraw from social activities or isolate themselves to avoid triggering reminders of the trauma. Social withdrawal can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
12. Negative Changes in Thinking or Mood
PTSD can lead to persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world. People may feel hopeless, experience a distorted sense of blame, or become extremely pessimistic.
13. Depression
It’s common for PTSD and depression to co-occur. People may experience deep sadness, a loss of interest in activities, and feelings of worthlessness alongside PTSD symptoms.
14. Self-Destructive Behavior
Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse or reckless driving, is a dangerous sign of PTSD. These behaviors are often coping mechanisms for dealing with overwhelming emotions (Pietrzak et al., 2011)
15. Suicidal Thoughts
In severe cases, PTSD can lead to thoughts of death or suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s critical to seek immediate help from a mental health professional, or call/text the National Suicide Hotline Number at 988.
How to Seek Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs of PTSD, seeking professional help is crucial. Treatment options like therapy, medication, and ketamine therapy are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. For the best online ketamine therapy, please visit the amazing providers at Innerwell. Their knowledge is second to none and compassion sets the standard.
PTSD can be an overwhelming and isolating condition, but recovery is possible. By understanding the signs and symptoms, you can take the first step toward healing. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
Elbogen, E. B., Johnson, S. C., Wagner, H. R., Newton, V. M., & Beckham, J. C. (2010). Financial well-being and postdeployment adjustment among Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans. Military Medicine, 175(8), 613-619. https://doi.org/10.7205/MILMED-D-09-00197
Pietrzak, R. H., Goldstein, M. B., Malley, J. C., Rivers, A. J., & Southwick, S. M. (2011). Risk and protective factors associated with suicidal ideation in veterans of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Journal of Affective Disorders, 130(1-2), 231-238. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2010.09.041
