Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Question 1

What is PTSD?

Answer 1

It is a stress disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, fear evoking or dangerous event

Question 2

What is the aetiology of PTSD?

Answer 2

Culture can influence the risk of development
It is not fully understood why some people get it and some don’t
History of depression and anxiety increases risk

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms of PTSD?

Answer 3

Re-experiencing the traumatic event (flashbacks, nightmares)
Avoidance of reminders
Emotional numbing (through self medication, dissasociation, etc)
Hyperarousal (head on a swivel, paranoia, difficulty switching off and relaxing, constant assessment of possible threats)

Physical symptoms:

Headaches
Dizziness
Chest pain
Digestive issues

Psychological symptoms:

Depressed mood
Anxiety
Self harm
Self destructive behaviours

Question 4

What are the treatment options for PTSD?

Answer 4

CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, self help treatments.

Psychoeducation (self awareness resources, identifying strengths.

Trauma informed care - reassurance, understanding validation and support.

Medications for symptomatic relief, eg. anxiolytics and antidepressants.

Recovery focus

• Routine
• Self care
• Limit exposure
• Grounding techniques

Management of the disorder