The psychology of post traumatic stress disorder

Many of us will experience some kind of trauma during our lifetime. Sometimes, we escape with no long-term effects. But for many people, those experiences linger, causing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and negative thoughts that interfere with everyday life. Joelle Rabow Maletis details the science behind post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. PTSD has been called “the hidden wound” because it comes without outward physical signs. But even if it’s an invisible disorder, it doesn’t have to be a silent one. There are options. If you think you might be suffering from PTSD, the first step is an evaluation with a mental health professional who can direct you towards the many resources available. Psychotherapy can be very effective for PTSD, helping individuals better understand their triggers. And certain medications can make symptoms more manageable, as can self- care practices, like mindfulness and regular exercise. Reach out and connect to your clinician who can support you in considering various modalities including somatic work. Collaboratively you can create a treatment plan that is right for you.