Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, affects approximately 8 million adults in the US every year. And while most people associate PTSD with soldiers traumatized in combat, civilians suffer from PTSD too. In fact, about 10% of women and 4% of men will have PTSD at some point in their lives. Post-traumatic stress disorder can result from any number of traumatic events or prolonged traumatic experiences, including serious accidents, war/combat, sexual assault/rape, physical or sexual abuse, serious injury, natural disaster, witnessing a death or violent crime. Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD, and even with those who do, it may not happen until months or years after the traumatic experience ends.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-5), the diagnostic criteria for PTSD includes:
- Exposure to trauma
- Presence of intrusive symptoms, such as distressing memories, dreams, or flashbacks associated with the trauma
- Persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with the trauma
- Negative changes in mood and cognitions, such as disrupted memory associate with the trauma, negative beliefs, or persistent negative emotions
- Changes in reactivity and arousal, such as hypervigilance or being easily startled
- Above symptoms last at least one month
- Symptoms cause distress or impair normal functioning
- Symptoms are not attributed to other medical conditions
PTSD can be difficult to diagnose because it is not always easy to connect the symptoms with the trauma. Additionally, some of the symptoms may overlap with other conditions, such as addiction or anxiety. A qualified mental health professional can help to ensure an accurate diagnosis, and even then, treatment will be determined by the type of PTSD diagnosed.
The Four Types of PTSD
When a person experiences trauma, a stress response is to be expected. A normal stress response can be usually managed with compassion, self-care, relaxation techniques, and time. But this is not always the case. Sometimes the symptoms persist or even worsen, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder. Here are the four types:
Acute Stress Disorder
In the aftermath of a traumatic event, some people experience debilitating symptoms of stress associated with the trauma. For example, a person may develop an extreme fear of driving in the days or weeks immediately following a car accident. This is an example of acute stress disorder, which can be treated therapy and other treatments designed to soothe and calm the nervous system. Although acute stress disorder is not technically PTSD, when left untreated, it leads to a greater risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder.
Uncomplicated PTSD
When a person suffers from PTSD as the result of a single event, and there is no other co-occurring disorder present, they are usually diagnosed with uncomplicated PTSD. The symptoms are no less significant than with other types of PTSD, but the treatment will be focused on trauma-related symptoms. Symptoms of uncomplicated PTSD often respond to cognitive behavior therapies, though sometimes pharmacological interventions are necessary.
Complex PTSD
Complex PTSD refers to post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from multiple traumatic events, repeated exposure to violence, or prolonged traumatic experiences, such as domestic violence, childhood neglect, or sexual abuse. Symptoms of complex PTSD are similar to those associated with other types of PTSD, and symptom treatment may be similar as well, though additional therapeutic methods are often necessary for helping to repair the individual’s sense of trust and self-worth.
Comorbid PTSD
It is common for people with post-traumatic stress disorder to suffer from other mental conditions. In fact, studies have shown that 50% of people diagnosed with PTSD are also diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD). This is known as comorbidity, which is defined as the simultaneous presence of two or more diseases or conditions in a patient. Addiction is another condition often present in people with untreated PTSD, as many people turn to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate. In cases of comorbid PTSD, the best results are achieved when both conditions are treated simultaneously.
PTSD Clinical Research Trial at Synergy Research Centers
If you or someone you know suffers from PTSD, you may benefit from participation in a clinical research trial. At Synergy Research Centers, we’re committed to helping further advances in treatment for people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions. Give us a call for more information or to see if you’re eligible. You may receive compensation for your time and travel expenses.