PTSD Flashcards
what is PTSD
history of exposure to trauma which is associated with a response of intense fear, helplessness or horror
most common cause of PTSD in the uk
rape
what is the role of the medial prefrontal cortex
regulates emotional + fear responses (connects to amydgala)
symptoms in PTSD
intrusive symptoms – recollections, flashbacks, dreams
avoidance symptoms – avoid activities/ thoughts associated with the trauma
negative changes in cognition / sleep
hyperarousal symptoms – irritability, hypervigilance
triggers for trauma memories
visual auditory smell taste kinaesthetic
what states of mind can trigger flashback
insomnia
tiredness
stress
Individuals with PTSD can get emotional numbing - what is this
feeling detached from the world, unable to ‘love’, feeling alone, loss of interest in hobbies/friends/family
what is dissociation
feeling like they are observing themselves from above/ like it is not really happening
offers temporary relief for the individual
when is dissociation likely to happen
- severe trauma
- prolonged trauma
- repeated trauma
- if victim is very young
responses to trauma + time frames
48 hours = acute stress reaction
up to 4 weeks = acute stress disorder
up to 3 months = acute PTSD
over 3 months = chronic PTSD
therapy for PTSD
CBT
eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)
drug therapy in PTSD
only if psychotherapy unsuccessful
- paroxetine (SSRI)
- mirtazapine (TCA)
