Did you know the definition of PTSD has changed over the years? PTSD stands for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD became an official diagnosis in 1980. At first, trauma was only considered to be things like war, torture or rape. Overtime research has improved and we now understand that other stressors can cause trauma. These stressors can be events such as racism, discrimination, car accidents, death, divorce, illness. As a result, the definition of PTSD and trauma has expanded. Continue reading to learn more about PTSD, Complex PTSD, common symptoms of PTSD and CPTD and ways to cope!

What is PTSD?

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There is a "textbook" definition of PTSD. The Diagnostic Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5) is what doctors and therapists use to diagnose mental health disorders. The DSM-5 states that PTSD is a mental health disorder that occurs after you experiences a scary, overwhelming or traumatic event. You can develop PTSD a few ways. You can experience or witness a trauma. You can learn about a traumatic event or experience repeated exposure to disturbing details of a traumatic event. In order for PTSD to develop, after the trauma occurs, certain symptoms develop. These symptoms are either distressing and/or interfering to your functioning.

As a PTSD therapist, I have a different definition of PTSD. PTSD is a b*tch. PTSD invades every fiber of your being. You can’t sleep without nightmares. You jump at every sound. Flashbacks spread faster than wildfire. You question your own judgment. You want to crawl out of your skin. You don’t feel in control of your emotions. You are constantly on edge. You feel disconnected from your body. The world does not feel safe. You cannot trust anyone.

What are PTSD symptoms?

Below are the symptoms of PTSD:

Recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic event(s).

Distressing dreams in which the content and/or affect of the dream are related to the traumatic event(s).
Dissociative reactions (e.g., flashbacks) in which you feel or act as if the traumatic event(s) were recurring
Avoidance of or efforts to avoid distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings and external reminders (people, places, things, etc) about or associated with the traumatic event(s).
Inability to remember an important aspect of the traumatic event(s)
Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world (e.g., “There is something wrong with me." "I cannot trust anyone." “The world is completely dangerous,”)
Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame).
Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others.
Irritable behavior and angry outbursts (with little or no provocation) or reckless or self-destructive behavior.
Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response.
Sleep problems (e.g., difficulty falling or staying asleep or restless sleep).

What is Complex PTSD?

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is similar to PTSD. C- PTSD is caused by longer term exposure to traumatic experiences.

What are C-PTSD symptoms?

If you have C-PSD, you will have PTSD symptoms in addition to feeling worthless, shameful and guilty. You may also have problems with controlling your emotions, find it hard to connect with others and relationship concerns.

No Hierarchy of Trauma

No matter what you have experienced, you deserve and are worthy of help and support. There is no experience too big or too small to be considered trauma. Too often, we compare our trauma to others. We say, “they had it much worse than I did so I don’t deserve treatment.” As Brene Brown said, “there is enough empathy to go around.”

At Embodied Wellness, we believe there is no hierarchy of trauma.

One traumatic experience is no worse or better, no less or more traumatic than another. You get to determine the impact of your experience, no one else.

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Living with PTSD and C- PTSD

There is not a “one size fits all” treatment for PTSD and C-PTSD. Peter Levine, the developer of Somatic Experiencing states, the most important thing to remember is "trauma is not a life sentence." There is hope and the possibility to heal from trauma. Healing is not linear and does not happen overnight.

5 Ways to Cope with symptoms of PTSD and C-PTSD

1. Identify your triggers. Identify the thoughts, feelings, sensations, and events that contribute to PTSD symptoms. This can help you learn what you can control and make a plan for what you cannot control.

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2. Reach out for support. Identify trusted and supportive friends and family who you can talk to when you are feeling triggered or upset.

3. Educate yourself. Learning about the PTSD symptoms can help you normalize what you are experiencing.

4. Be kind to yourself. Coping with PTSD can have its ups and downs! It is common for PTSD survivors to blame themselves their trauma. This contributes to guilt and shame. By noticing how you talk to yourself, you can begin to challenge negative beliefs that contribute to low self-esteem.

5. PTSD Therapy. Starting therapy does not mean you are weak. In actuality, it means you are strong for seeking the support you deserve. It’s important to find a PTSD therapist who specializes in trauma if you have a history of PTSD or C-PTSD. There are many different types of PTSD therapy. Common PTSD treatments include DBT for PTSD, Somatic therapy, EMDR and IFS!

PTSD Therapy in Detroit, MI

Trauma does not have to be a life sentence. Are you interested in learning more about PTSD treatments? Do you want to start PTSD therapy right away? One of the greatest benefits of online therapy is you can start it from the comfort of your home. Schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation with one of our trauma therapists today.

In order to start PTSD therapy at Embodied Wellness, PLLC follow these steps: