Processing Trauma: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
photo credit - Eric Ward via unsplash
June marks a few national awareness topics, last week I talked about cancer awareness. This week I talk about something that is a little closer to home; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As a combat veteran I know all to well the effects that traumatic experiences can have on our mental well-being. From combat situations to experiences we face in civilian life; all of these can have lasting effects on our lives.
How Does PTSD Look in Different Cultures
When many hear the term “culture” they automatically think about race, country of origin or other genetic type differences. While these things certainly need to be considered, there are other nuances to this term in regard to mental health.
Race/Genetics/Country of Origin – Depending on your specific background, PTSD may be interpreted as an evil spirit, a “part of life”, a panic attack or a problem that requires community intervention. These are important factors not only in how you view the problem, but how it is treated.
Military or First Responder – PTSD in veterans and first responders is (mostly) viewed as a “part of the job”. We view ourselves as “trained for these situations” and that we should be equipped to handle the trauma that comes with the job. It is a belief that has caused more damage than good in my opinion and added to the stigma of reaching out for help.
Prisoner and/or Parolees – Individuals that have spent any time incarcerated have developed and integrated into their own cultural way of life. These individuals place high importance on things like; keeping your word, respect, boundaries and “minding your business”. Much like veterans and first responders the view of PTSD in this population only adds to the stigma of seeking help.
These are just a few cultures and how PTSD is viewed by each. PTSD effects people all over the world and is not limited to any specific background or culture.
Treatment for PTSD
PTSD is commonly treated with psychotherapy and medications. While these are the common treatments, it is important to note that treatment relies heavily on the individual and what works best for them.
Psychotherapy – Psychotherapy, or counseling/talk therapy, is the least intrusive treatment approach to PTSD. Common modalities used in this form of treatment include: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Prolonged Exposure (PE). Fractured Light Counseling can provide CPT, CBT and PE; contact me to learn more.
Medication – Along with psychotherapy, medication could also be used in the treatment and management of your PTSD diagnosis. SSRI/SNRI Antidepressants, Prazosin and other medications can be prescribed by certain medication providers to aid in symptom management. It is important to note that Fractured Light Counseling CAN NOT prescribe medications.
Final Thoughts
Everyone is exposed to some sort of trauma in their lives. It is estimated that roughly 13 million people are effected/diagnosed with PTSD in any given year. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD; or maybe you think something is wrong but you can’t figure out what it is, reach out…