Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Therapy & Counselling in Adelaide
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD doesn’t always result from dramatic events such as an attack or war.
By its very definition, it is an emotional reaction of intense stress and distress that feels like it overwhelms our ability to cope.
It can result from a single traumatic event, or many events over time, sometimes weeks, years, or even decades, and the reaction to it is unique to every individual and their different experiences.
A direct personal experience
The DSM IV notes that trauma stems from a direct personal experience of an event that involves actual or threatened death or serious injury, or witnessing or learning of such an event, experienced by a person one is close to.
Abusive relationships, assault, bullying, and childhood trauma are some examples that often lead to PTSD.
Some people find that the traumatic emotions fade naturally with time, but when they continue to remain and give rise to difficulties with sleep, relationships, or chronic depression and anxiety, it is best to seek help.
Identifying the signs and symptoms of PTSD
As we are all unique, the symptoms will vary in intensity and type for each individual. Generally speaking, PTSD symptoms may include:
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Flashbacks
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Generalised anxiety
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Difficulty feeling relaxed and content
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Insomnia and nightmares
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Panic attacks
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Emotional detachment and dissociation so that others may describe a person as numb or distant
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Low confidence
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Avoidance of emotions through substances such as alcohol or marijuana
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Depression
PTSD therapy & counselling | Adelaide Psychology Clinic
Trauma can leave a person with severe and longstanding symptoms that can significantly and sadly influence the quality of life.
Our highly trained Psychologists all have an interest in PTSD therapy and will utilise evidence-based treatment options such as Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR), Trauma Processing, Reframing, Emotional Regulation and Rebuilding to assist in building a strong and sturdy sense of self.
