5 Types of Post Traumatic Stress
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Normal Stress Response. Events like accidents, injuries, illnesses, surgeries and other sources of unreasonable amounts of tension and stress can all lead to this response. Typically, normal stress response can be effectively managed with an adequate support system.
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Acute Stress Disorder can occur in people who have been exposed to what is or what feels like a life-threatening event. Natural disasters, loss of loved ones, loss of a job or risk of death are all stressors that can trigger acute stress disorder. If left untreated, acute stress disorder may actually develop into PTSD. Acute stress disorder can be treated through individual and group therapy, medication and intensive treatments designed by a Psychiatrist.
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Uncomplicated PTSD is linked to one major traumatic event, versus multiple events, and is the easiest form of PTSD to treat. Symptoms of uncomplicated PTSD include: avoidance of trauma reminders, nightmares, flashbacks to the event, irritability, mood changes and changes in relationships. Uncomplicated PTSD can be treated through therapy, medication or a combination of both.
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Complex PTSD is the opposite of uncomplicated PTSD, caused by multiple traumatic events, not just one. Complex PTSD is common in abuse or domestic violence cases, repeated exposure to war or community violence, or sudden loss.
Individuals with complex PTSD can be diagnosed with borderline or antisocial personality disorder or dissociative disorders. They exhibit behavioral issues, such as impulsivity, aggression, substance abuse or sexual impulsivity. They can also exhibit extreme emotional issues, such as intense rage, depression or panic.
- Comorbid PTSD is a blanket term for co-occurring disorders. It is applied when a person has more than one mental health concern, often coupled with substance abuse issues. Best results are achieved when both the commingling mental health condition and the comorbid PTSD are treated at the same time.
Photo by Kristina Tripkovic on Unsplash
What’s your scale for frequency of unwanted upsetting memories about the trauma:
0 - Not at all
1 - Once a week or less/a little
2 - 2 to 3 times a week/somewhat
3 - 4 to 5 times a week/very much
4 - 6 or more times a week/severe