June is PTSD Awareness Month

June is PTSD Awareness Month and there is not a better time to discuss it. While it is true that PTSD is a mental illness that stems from some type of trauma a person endured, it, unfortunately, is masked with the use of drugs or alcohol. PTSD is a result of the mind being unable to process information and feelings in a normal way. The trauma of the event will intrude into consciousness and cause extreme anguish.

Many people that suffer from PTSD will turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to numb their pain. This combination is known as dual diagnosis and it makes treatment more complex but still very possible. PTSD symptoms, which include avoiding anything related to the experience, nightmares, flashbacks, anger, aggressive behavior, severe anxiety, and insomnia seem less stressful to handle with the help of substances. In truth, the substance just masks the problem and makes it much worse. Substance abuse in those who suffer with PTSD is a way of avoiding reality and is self medicating. This has led to many addictions to drugs and alcohol.

There are many types of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and the truth is you may have to try different treatments before you find one that is satisfactory. One of the most effective treatment options includes a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medicine, especially SSRIs like Zoloft, Paxil or Prozac. Counseling is also very therapeutic for PTSD and dual diagnosis clients because it teaches you how to deal effectively with painful feelings and memories.

REFERENCE
Web MD http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/tc/post-traumatic-stress-disorder--treatment-overview
  • 1 Commentby Likes|Date
  • Sounds ironic but I wasn't aware of this until now that June is coming to an end.

    However never is too late when it comes to the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, and this awareness should remain up any time of the year.
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