Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
At Broadview Psychiatry in North Carolina, we understand how deeply trauma can impact mental health. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Unlike normal stress responses that fade over time, PTSD symptoms persist and often intensify, interfering with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Trauma can stem from various experiences, including:
Assault or abuse
Serious accidents or injuries
Natural disasters
Sudden or unexpected loss of a loved one
Military combat or war
Witnessing violence or tragedy
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), millions of Americans are affected by PTSD each year, making it one of the most prevalent anxiety-related conditions. At Broadview Psychiatry, we are committed to helping patients recognize symptoms, understand treatment options, and find a path toward healing.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms vary in severity and presentation. They are generally grouped into four categories:
1. Intrusive Memories
Flashbacks (reliving the traumatic event)
Nightmares or distressing dreams
Intrusive, unwanted memories
Intense emotional or physical reactions to reminders of trauma
2. Avoidance
Avoiding people, places, or conversations related to the trauma
Emotional numbness
Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
3. Negative Changes in Mood & Thinking
Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or fear
Difficulty feeling positive emotions
Hopelessness about the future
Feeling detached or isolated
4. Changes in Arousal & Reactivity
Irritability, anger outbursts, or aggression
Hypervigilance (being “on edge”)
Difficulty concentrating
Trouble falling or staying asleep
If these symptoms last longer than six months, or worsen over time, it may indicate post-traumatic stress disorder.
Causes and Risk Factors
Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD. Several factors can increase risk, such as:
Experiencing severe or repeated trauma
Lack of social support after the event
Pre-existing mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
Family history of mental illness
Exposure to childhood trauma
Research from the American Psychiatric Association suggests that biological changes in brain chemistry, particularly involving stress hormones and the amygdala, also play a role in PTSD development.
Diagnosing PTSD
A PTSD diagnosis requires a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. At Broadview Psychiatry, our providers carefully review:
Medical history and mental health background
Symptom frequency and duration
Functional impact on work, school, and relationships
Exclusion of other mental health disorders that may mimic PTSD symptoms
Patients must meet criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) to be formally diagnosed.
Treatment for PTSD at Broadview Psychiatry
At Broadview Psychiatry, we tailor PTSD treatment to each patient, combining evidence-based therapies with compassionate care. Our treatment strategies include:
1. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients reframe negative thought patterns and develop healthy coping strategies.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs related to trauma.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Gradual exposure to trauma-related memories in a safe, therapeutic environment.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to help process traumatic memories.
2. Medication Management
Medications may be prescribed to reduce symptoms, particularly if psychotherapy alone is not sufficient. Common options include:
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): First-line treatment for PTSD (e.g., sertraline, paroxetine).
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): Helpful for mood and anxiety regulation.
Anti-anxiety medications: Short-term relief for severe anxiety and insomnia.
3. Integrated Care
Because PTSD often overlaps with conditions such as depression, insomnia, or substance use disorders, Broadview Psychiatry takes a holistic approach. Our team provides:
Trauma-informed care
Sleep disorder evaluations (including insomnia treatment)
Support for co-occurring depression and anxiety
Lifestyle and wellness coaching
Self-Help and Coping Strategies
Alongside professional treatment, patients can reduce PTSD symptoms through:
Regular physical activity
Mindfulness meditation or yoga
Journaling to process emotions
Building a strong support system
Avoiding alcohol and drug misuse
🔗 Helpful resources:
Preventing PTSD
Not all trauma can be avoided, but certain protective measures may reduce the risk of developing PTSD:
Seeking early support after trauma
Strengthening coping mechanisms and resilience
Participating in counseling or support groups
Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits (sleep, exercise, nutrition)
Why Choose Broadview Psychiatry for PTSD Treatment in NC?
At Broadview Psychiatry, we combine expert psychiatric care with compassion. Our providers are highly experienced in treating trauma-related disorders and understand the unique needs of each patient.
We offer:
Evidence-based therapies tailored to trauma recovery
Comprehensive medication management
Holistic care for co-occurring conditions (depression, anxiety, sleep disorders)
A safe, confidential, and supportive environment
We are committed to helping patients reclaim their lives, reduce PTSD symptoms, and restore balance.
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Takeaway
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is treatable. With the right care, patients can overcome intrusive memories, reduce anxiety, and live fulfilling lives again.
At Broadview Psychiatry in North Carolina, we are here to walk with you every step of the way toward recovery and wellness.