Understanding PTSD: How It’s Treated Differently

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that happens after someone goes through something very scary or painful. It can come from things like accidents, violence, war, natural disasters, or losing someone you love. PTSD makes people feel like they are still stuck in that scary moment, even when they are safe.

People with PTSD might have nightmares, flashbacks (like watching a bad memory on repeat), or feel very nervous all the time. It can also make them avoid certain places or people that remind them of what happened. But the good news is PTSD can be treated, and different people may need different types of treatment.

Signs That PTSD Might Be Affecting You

PTSD can affect people in different ways, but there are some common signs to look out for. These symptoms can appear days, weeks, or even years after the traumatic event. They are usually grouped into four main categories:

Re-experiencing the Trauma:

People with PTSD may feel like they are reliving the event over and over. This can happen through:

• Flashbacks: Suddenly feeling like the trauma is happening again
• Nightmares: Having scary dreams about the event or similar fears
• Disturbing thoughts: Thinking about the trauma even when trying not to

These experiences can feel very real, making the person’s body react with fear, sweating, or a racing heart, even when they are safe.

Avoidance:

People with PTSD often avoid anything that reminds them of what happened. This might include:

• Places or people related to the trauma
• Talking about the event or even thinking about it
• Movies, sounds, or smells that bring back memories

Avoidance might seem like a way to protect yourself, but it can make PTSD worse by reinforcing the fear.

Negative Changes in Mood and Thinking:

PTSD can change the way a person thinks and feels. Some common signs include:

• Feeling numb or disconnected from others
• Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
• Having guilt or shame about the event
• Thinking the world is dangerous or that they can’t trust anyone

These feelings can make relationships and daily life difficult.

Feeling on Edge (Hyperarousal):

People with PTSD may feel constantly alert and ready for danger, even when they are safe. This can cause:

• Trouble sleeping or relaxing
• Being easily startled by loud noises or sudden movements
• Feeling angry or irritable for no clear reason
• Having difficulty focusing or staying calm

This is because their brain stays in “survival mode,” making them feel tense all the time.

Types of PTSD Treatment

There are several ways PTSD is treated, and often, therapists will combine different methods to give the best care. Here are some common treatments:

1. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

This type of therapy helps people understand how their thoughts affect their feelings and actions. People with PTSD may believe things like, “I will never be safe again” or “It was my fault.” TF-CBT helps them change these thoughts so they feel less afraid and more in control.

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

This is a special type of therapy where a person talks about their trauma while following a therapist’s finger, a light, or a sound that moves back and forth. It helps the brain process memories in a new way so they don’t feel as painful.

3. Exposure Therapy

Some people with PTSD avoid things that remind them of their trauma. Exposure therapy slowly and safely helps them face these reminders so they can learn that they are not in danger anymore. Over time, their fear gets smaller.

4. Medication

Doctors sometimes prescribe medicine to help with PTSD symptoms. Medications like antidepressants can help with anxiety, depression, and trouble sleeping. While medicine doesn’t erase PTSD, it can make it easier for people to go through therapy and heal.

5. Group Therapy and Support Groups

Talking with other people who have PTSD can be very comforting. Support groups help people realize they are not alone, and they can share experiences and coping strategies with each other.

PTSD in Children vs. Adults

Children and adults experience PTSD differently, so their treatments also need to be different.

• Children with PTSD may act out their trauma in play, have trouble sleeping, or become very clingy with their parents. Therapists often use play therapy or art therapy to help them express their feelings in a way that feels safe.
• Adults with PTSD may struggle with work, relationships, and everyday activities. They may need therapy that focuses on thinking patterns and relaxation techniques to help them feel more grounded.

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD): A Special Kind of PTSD

Some people go through long-term trauma, like childhood abuse, domestic violence, or repeated exposure to danger. This can lead to Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), which is a little different from regular PTSD. People with C-PTSD may have trouble trusting others, feel deep shame, or struggle with emotions.

Treatment for C-PTSD often includes longer therapy sessions and more focus on building self-worth and safety before talking about the trauma.

How Therapy Can Help

Not everyone has the same preferences or needs when it comes to therapy. Meela offers both in-person sessions for those who value face-to-face connection and online therapy for those seeking convenience when dealing with PTSD.

Therapy with Meela offers:

• Choice between in-person meetings or online sessions
• Flexible scheduling that works around your life
• Access to your best-fit therapist regardless of your location
• The comfort of selecting the approach that feels right for you

Whether you prefer sitting across from your therapist or connecting from the privacy of your own home, Meela makes it easy to find experienced therapists who specialize in PTSD treatment. You can find a therapist who will work with you to find the best treatment for your needs—whether that’s talk therapy, EMDR, or coping strategies.

Getting help for PTSD can feel scary, but with Meela, you don’t have to figure it out alone.