PTSD AND EMDR

What are the Symptoms of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) ?

Symptoms:

Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms are generally grouped into three types: intrusive memories, avoidance and numbing, and increased anxiety or emotional arousal (hyperarousal).

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Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms typically start within three months of a traumatic event. In a small number of cases, though, PTSD symptoms may not appear until years after the event.

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Symptoms of intrusive memories may include:

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• Flashbacks, or reliving the traumatic event for minutes or even days at a time
• Upsetting dreams about the traumatic event

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Symptoms of avoidance and emotional numbing may include:

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• Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event
• Feeling emotionally numb
• Avoiding activities you once enjoyed
• Hopelessness about the future
• Memory problems
• Trouble concentrating
• Difficulty maintaining close relationships

Symptoms of anxiety and increased emotional arousal may include:

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• Irritability or anger
• Overwhelming guilt or shame
• Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much
• Trouble sleeping
• Being easily startled or frightened
• Hearing or seeing things that aren’t there

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Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms can come and go. You may have more post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms when things are stressful in general, or when you run into reminders of what you went through. You may hear a car backfire and relive combat experiences, for instance. Or you may see a report on the news about a rape and feel overcome by memories of your own assault.

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When to seek help...

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It’s normal to have a wide range of feelings and emotions after a traumatic event. You might experience fear and anxiety, a lack of focus, sadness, changes in how well you sleep or how much you eat, or crying spells that catch you off guard. You may have nightmares or be unable to stop thinking about the event. This doesn’t mean you have post-traumatic stress disorder.  If you have these disturbing thoughts and feelings for more than a month, if they’re severe, or if you feel you’re having trouble getting your life back under control, talk to your health care professional. Getting treatment as soon as possible can help prevent PTSD symptoms from getting worse.

In some cases, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms may be so severe that you need emergency help, especially if you’re thinking about harming yourself or someone else. If this happens, call 911 or other emergency medical service, or ask a supportive family member or friend for help.

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EMDR has provided relief to more than two million people…

You can get the help you need for a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, conflict resolution, relaxation and stress management, parenting, male and female issues or concerns, anger management, family conflict and family violence, victims of violent crimes, and marital or couples therapy. Trauma and neglect most often begin in the home, and can have a lasting impact on the life of both children and adults. By utilizing EMDR to treat trauma, clients develop skills and an attitude needed for a positive future.

PTSD and EMDR in the News:

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PTSD After Divorce
Eye Therapy to Tackle Military Stress
Staten Islanders can ease the stress of Sandy’s aftermath with counseling
Treating PTSD in the Armed Forces