Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

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Other names for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Combat stress reaction
Post-trauma psychological injury
Trauma-related anxiety

Synopsis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as war, assault, natural disasters, accidents, or medical emergencies. PTSD causes persistent emotional and physical responses including flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance, and mood disturbances. It affects both the brain and nervous system, altering stress hormone levels and emotional processing. While it’s normal to have acute stress reactions after trauma, PTSD is diagnosed when symptoms persist for more than one month and impair daily functioning.

Types:

  • Acute PTSD: Symptoms develop within 3 months of the trauma

  • Chronic PTSD: Symptoms last longer than 3 months

  • Delayed-onset PTSD: Symptoms begin 6+ months after the trauma

  • Complex PTSD: Often from prolonged trauma (e.g., childhood abuse), involves deep emotional and relational disruption

Common Causes:

  • Military combat or first-responder trauma

  • Physical or sexual assault

  • Natural disasters or serious accidents

  • Medical trauma (e.g., emergency C-section, ICU stays)

  • Witnessing violent or life-threatening events

  • Repeated exposure to distressing events (e.g., in caregiving or journalism)

Severity Causes:

  • Duration and intensity of the trauma

  • Lack of support system or early intervention

  • Preexisting mental health conditions or adverse childhood experiences

  • Re-traumatization or continued exposure to stress

  • Biological sensitivity (e.g., heightened stress hormone response)

When to See a Doctor:

  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or panic attacks disrupting life

  • Avoidance of people, places, or events related to trauma

  • Severe anxiety, anger, or emotional numbness

  • Suicidal thoughts or self-harming behavior

  • Inability to function at work, in relationships, or in daily life

Natural remedies for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Ashwagandha: An adaptogen that supports the adrenal glands, reduces cortisol, and helps the body regulate its response to chronic stress and emotional triggers.

L-theanine: Found in green tea, it promotes alpha brain wave activity and calms anxiety without sedation. Can be taken in supplement form for focused relaxation.

Magnesium: Essential for nervous system function and relaxation. Helps ease insomnia, muscle tension, and nervous overactivity often present in PTSD.

Chamomile: A gentle herb that reduces nervous tension, supports restful sleep, and may help soften irritability and emotional volatility.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid): A key inhibitory neurotransmitter that calms nerve activity. Supplemental GABA may reduce hypervigilance and ease intrusive thoughts.

Rhodiola: An adaptogen that increases emotional resilience and reduces stress-related fatigue. Especially useful for emotional numbness and burnout in trauma recovery.

Mindfulness and deep breathing: Regular practice helps ground the mind, calm physiological arousal, and reduce reactivity to trauma-related triggers.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): A non-drug therapy that reduces distress associated with traumatic memories and is highly effective for PTSD.

Gentle movement: Yoga, tai chi, or walking promote a sense of control, regulate the nervous system, and help release stored trauma in the body.

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