PTSD

People who have lived through trauma or witnessed a shocking event may experience flashbacks, troubling thoughts, and fears as a result. The team at Solid Foundation Psychiatry, headed up by Edewor Ben Osevwe, PMHNP-BC, offers support for the very real effects of trauma. Benefit from telehealth therapy offered from locations in Phoenix, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada, Portland, Oregon, and Pearland, Texas. If you have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reach out to schedule a session. Call or use the online tool to book. 

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a very real mental health disorder that develops after a person experiences trauma. Many people associate PTSD with military combat, but any and all trauma is real. The fear and nightmares that follow trauma can be frightening and life-changing. 

Anyone can develop PTSD. Examples of trauma that can trigger PTSD are: 

• Seeing someone die
• Being in a war zone
• Natural disasters like hurricanes
• Sexual assaults
• Being bullied
• Auto accidents
• Home invasions

Sudden trauma can lead to PTSD, but you can also develop forms of PTSD following ongoing trauma like domestic abuse. 

What symptoms suggest I have PTSD?

PTSD symptoms usually fall into one of four categories: avoidance, intrusive memories, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. 

Your symptoms are unique to you and may change over time, but could include:

• Flashbacks (reliving the traumatic event)
• Recurrent memories of the trauma
• Nightmares about the event
• Avoiding talking about the trauma
• Avoiding reminders of the trauma
• Sleep disturbances
• Memory problems
• Difficulty with close relationships
• Feeling detached from friends and family
• Emotional numbness
• Being easily startled
• Always being alert for danger
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability and angry outbursts
• Aggressive behavior

People with PTSD may lead to depression and anxiety disorders. 

What treatments help with PTSD?

Every person has a different experience with PTSD, so no one therapy fits all cases. But you benefit from telehealth sessions that may include:

Psychotherapy

It can be hard to talk about challenging problems. You may find it easier to open up to a non-judgemental therapist, especially in a safe space. When you have a telepsychiatry session, you’re in a location you choose – whether your own home or another area that makes you feel relaxed – you feel comfortable and can be more open. 

During psychotherapy, your therapist listens intently while you describe your experiences and emotions. The empathic connection can help you come to terms with what’s happened. 

Medication

The providers at Solid Foundation Psychiatry can also do a medication review to determine if certain drugs will help you manage PTSD symptoms. For example, PTSD that manifests as anxiety or depression benefits from anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications. 

If you’re struggling with nightmares and flashbacks following trauma, contact Solid Foundation Psychiatry. Call today or use the online tool to schedule a telehealth appointment.