PTSD can happen to anyone. Current estimates are that as many as 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetimes. While anyone can experience trauma, not all people experience traumatic events in the same way. Some are able to manage events relatively well, while others experience significant distress as a result of traumatic events.
It is currently estimated that as many as 20% of people that experience a traumatic event will develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Estimates are even higher (between 30 and 60%) for those who have experienced a disaster, such as a hurricane, industrial accident, or terror attack.
In addition, between 5 to 20% of rescue workers of these events tend to experience PTSD within a year of the traumatic event. As a result, it is helpful to learn to recognize the symptoms associated with PTSD.
The most common symptoms include:
- Recurrent and intrusive memories of the traumatic event
- Flashbacks of the traumatic event. If you have PTSD you may feel like you “re-live” the traumatic event and that the traumatic event “just happened” even after years have passed.
- Recurrent dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event
- Intense distress resulting from anything that triggers memories of the traumatic event
- Avoiding anything that reminds you of the trauma
- Becoming emotionally “numb” in order to cope
- Blocking out memories of the trauma
- Irrational guilt around the traumatic event
- Persistent negative emotions such as fear, horror, anger, guilt, and shame
- Persistent inability to feel positive emotions such as love and happiness
- Loss of interest in activities and becoming detached
- Having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Becoming easily angered or agitated
- Becoming hyper-vigilant or easily startled
- Becoming depressed and anxious
- Reckless or self-destructive behavior
If you have experienced a traumatic event and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, New Dimensions can help!
New Dimensions Can Help!
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, New Dimensions can help. New Dimensions has Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programs (IOP) for adolescents and adults who are experiencing PTSD or other mental health issues. We have in-person treatment programs in Houston, Katy, and The Woodlands, Texas, and have online treatment programs for adults who reside within the State of Texas. To learn more about treatment options for PTSD, contact us at 800-685-9796 or visit our website at www.nddtreatment.com.