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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

At South Coast Behavioral Health, we understand the impact Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can have on someone’s life. Our trauma therapy services focus on the individual, ensuring a unique path to recovery suited to the needs of each client. 

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South Coast Behavioral Health is a safe and reliable source of PTSD treatment for all. 

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) occurs when a person goes through or witnesses a traumatic event like combat situations, natural disasters, sexual assault, or serious accidents. This mental health condition presents symptoms such as flashbacks and anxiety that can affect daily life for a person of any age or background.

Recognizing the signs of PTSD is essential in order to get the correct treatment to aid in recovery and improve quality of life. Valuable therapies for trauma, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and exposure therapy, can help someone overcome their trauma and move on to a happy and healthy life. 

 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Experiencing or witnessing traumatic events can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition marked by ongoing symptoms. Common triggers include combat exposure, natural disasters, sexual assault, and serious accidents. PTSD is characterized by persistent symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. After going through a significant traumatic life event, PTSD temporarily affects most individuals emotionally and psychologically. However, those dealing with PTSD often face enduring consequences that demand expert assistance and care to effectively cope and heal. 

What Causes PTSD?

There are various causes of PTSD; a combination of factors may also contribute to developing this condition. Here are some common causes of PTSD: 

PTSD Symptoms

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) shows symptoms that can greatly disrupt a person’s everyday life. Typical signs include memories and thoughts creeping in unexpectedly from the traumatic incident in the form of flashbacks or nightmares. People might also engage in avoidance tactics to stay away from triggers related to the trauma. Moreover, negative shifts in thinking and mood may lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or despair. Finally, signs of alertness and reactivity can manifest as increased nervousness, moodiness, or an over-the-top startled reaction, indicating continuous physical distress reactions. 

Intrusive Thoughts and Memories 

Persistent thoughts and memories of a traumatic event are indicators of PTSD. The experience can be characterized by upsetting flashbacks of the event or recurring nightmares that disturb one’s sleep. These involuntary recollections are usually emotional in nature and may lead to heightened feelings of anxiety or panic.   

Avoidance 

Avoidance behavior is trying to avoid reminding yourself of an experience and can involve steering clear of specific locations or people that bring back memories of the traumatic event. This avoidance behavior can lead to feelings of loneliness, making it tough to participate in regular daily routines.  

Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood 

Negative shifts in thoughts and emotions are challenges that people with PTSD may face. They might have pessimism about themselves or about others, feeling disconnected from loved ones or losing interest in activities they used to enjoy. These alterations in mood can lead to a feeling of hopelessness and sadness.   

Hyperarousal and Reactivity 

Feelings of arousal and reactivity in PTSD are characterized by increased physical responses like being easily startled, feeling tense or irritable, or having trouble sleeping and concentrating. These symptoms show a state of heightened awareness that can impact daily life and well-being significantly.   

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

People who have Complex PTSD (C‑PTSD) experience similar core symptoms such as reliving trauma memories, avoiding triggers that remind them of the traumatic event, and feeling on edge or hypervigilant all the time. However, the difference between PTSD and C-PTDS lies in the origins of C‑PTSD, which stem from enduring or repeated trauma over a period of time rather than a single traumatic incident.  

This prolonged exposure to trauma can lead to challenges like difficulty regulating emotions, negative self-perception, and struggles in forming and maintaining healthy relationships. This distinction underscores how individuals respond differently to trauma compared to isolated traumatic incidents.  

Dangers of PTSD and C-PTSD 

The risks associated with PTSD and Complex PTSD (CPTSD) go beyond basic challenges and can have a major impact on physical well-being and general quality of life. The potential health consequences include increased susceptibility to conditions like heart disease and digestive issues, in addition to mental health issues such as depression and substance abuse coexisting with the primary condition. These conditions can strain relationships, dampen daily functioning, and heighten the risk of suicidal tendencies. Hence, it is crucial to intervene and provide comprehensive care for successful recovery

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) commonly involves a blend of therapy and medication customized to fit the individual’s needs. Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Exposure Therapy prove to be helpful in managing symptoms by assisting individuals in processing traumatic memories and acquiring coping mechanisms. In some cases, for symptom relief like anxiety and depression, PTSD treatment may include the prescription of medications like serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). To achieve the results for individuals impacted by PTSD, it is crucial to work together with a mental health expert to create a thorough treatment strategy.  

Therapy for PTSD

Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a crucial component of treatment, focusing on helping individuals process traumatic experiences and develop coping strategies. Here are some common evidence-based therapies used to treat PTSD: 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) a form of psychotherapy rooted in mindfulness practices. ACT aims to promote flexibility by urging individuals to embrace their thoughts and emotions rather than resisting or harboring guilt. ACT assists clients in recognizing their core values and engaging in behaviors that are congruent with those values. 

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured type of therapy that has a specific duration. The main goal of CBT is to pinpoint and alter harmful thoughts and actions. CBT aims to improve mental health outcomes by improving thinking patterns and behaviors. 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioral counseling that aims to assist people to cope with strong emotions and harmful actions. DBT places significance on building competencies in four domains: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, fostering greater emotional resilience and healthier relationships.  

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy often employed for trauma and PTSD treatment purposes. EMDR involves patients revisiting memories while receiving stimulation like guided eye movements in tandem. The objective of EMDR is to lessen the intensity linked to traumatic recollections. 

Exposure Therapy (ET) 

Exposure therapy is a type of intervention that assists people in facing their fears within a safe setting gradually. ET involves exposing individuals to the objects or situations that they fear in a controlled manner with the objective of decreasing anxiety responses. The main aim of ET is to demonstrate to individuals that their fears are controllable and not as menacing as they believe them to be. 

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Medication for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) plays a crucial role in easing symptoms and enhancing well-being. Psychotherapy is frequently the approach used. However, some medications can assist in dealing with particular symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and depression. The typical medications prescribed for PTSD consist of antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and adjunctive medications that each fulfill unique roles in the treatment journey. 

Antidepressant Medication 

Medications such as sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) which fall under the category of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed as the initial course of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These drugs work to stabilize mood and alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression linked to this condition. Those who have PTSD can also find relief with venlafaxine (Effexor), which is classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). 

Anti-Anxiety Medication 

Medications used to alleviate anxiety, like benzodiazepines, are often prescribed for relief from intense anxiety symptoms linked to PTSD but are usually not favored for extended use due to the risk of dependence and potential cognitive impairment effects observed in people with PTSD. 

Supportive Medication 

Supportive medications may involve choices such as prazosin that help decrease nightmares and enhance sleep quality for people with PTSD symptoms. While not being a one-size-fits-all solution, these meds can offer comfort to some patients struggling with sleep disruptions due to their trauma experiences. Other supportive medications might aid in addressing symptoms without serving as primary treatments for PTSD. 

Frequently Asked Questions
About Mental Health Treatment

Psychotherapy paired with medication is the most effective way to promote recovery. Examples include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, etc.

Borderline personality disorder historically has been viewed as challenging to treat.

anorexia 

eating disorder

Anxiety disorders. Depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. Disruptive behavior disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder.

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PTSD Treatment at South Coast Behavioral Health

South Coast Behavioral Health provides evidence-based care for individuals with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), emphasizing personalized treatment that takes into account specific needs and experiences with trauma. Our method combines proven therapies for trauma, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), along with medication management as needed.  

Trauma Treatment for Veterans and First Responders

The Valor Program is designed to assist veterans and first responders in overcoming the difficulties associated with trauma by offering specialized support services. South Coast Behavioral Health prioritizes healing and empowerment for individuals struggling with the impact of PTSD by leveraging a skilled team with deep knowledge of military culture. 

Intensive, Trauma-Informed Care for PTSD 

Intensive, trauma-informed care for PTSD focuses nurturing and secure space for individuals to address and work through their traumatic events and considers their mental wellbeing a top priority. This type of care integrates therapies like Prolonged Exposure Therapy and mindfulness techniques into the treatment plan for a holistic approach. It caters to emotional and psychological requirements, assisting patients in cultivating coping mechanisms and inner strength. This detailed framework doesn’t just help lessen symptoms, but also supports lasting recovery by creating feelings of security, empowerment, and camaraderie among those on their path to healing. 

Treatment for PTSD Near Me 

Access to effective PTSD treatment within your community is vital. Numerous local resources are available to provide support, such as certified therapists who focus on trauma centered treatments like CBT and EMDR. Mental health centers, medical facilities, and veteran organizations frequently offer access to professionals who understand the nuances of PTSD. Moreover, participation in support groups can facilitate connections with peers that promote empathy and recovery.  

One way to find treatment options nearby that cater to individual needs is by using online directories or reaching out to local healthcare organizations; this ensures that individuals receive the supportive care they need for their journey towards healing, from PTSD. 

Treatment Programs at South Coast Behavioral Health

South Coast Behavioral Health offers outpatient and inpatient programs to address PTSD effectively by providing personalized treatment that incorporates evidence-based therapies and medication oversight along with individual or group therapy sessions. We provide support in a caring setting focused on improving mental health and facilitating healing.  

Our addiction, mental health, dual diagnosis treatment centers in California:

We provide male-specific treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Irvine, CA.

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We provide female-specific treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Huntington Beach, CA.

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We provide male-specific treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our residential treatment center in Costa Mesa, CA.

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We provide comprehensive care for those with primary addiction, primary mental health, and dual diagnoses within our PHP and IOP treatment facility in Newport Beach, CA.

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Our dual diagnosis treatment center in Oklahoma:

We provide comprehensive care for those with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our inpatient and outpatient treatment center in Oklahoma City, OK.

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Our treatment centers in California and Oklahoma offer a wide range of services and dedicated addiction specialists who will help you begin your journey. We believe in empowering real people to get real, lasting results in recovery. Contact us today to get started!

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