It is estimated that 5% (13 million) of the US population struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is developed after someone encounters a stressful event. When stress from trauma is left untreated, it may lead to several issues and physical health issues like cardiovascular or gastrointestinal diseases. With appropriate interventions like personalized PTSD treatments, the condition can be stabilized.
PTSD Treatment Plan: How We Do It
Like most mental health conditions, PTSD can also be addressed via appropriate and personalized treatments. From severe to moderate symptoms can be addressed at our rehab center. The treatment plan for PTSD goes something like this:
Assessment of Condition
After booking an appointment, the first step is to share your situation with the mental health specialist. At this stage, the doctor will determine: Whether it is PTSD The severity of the condition Treatment necessary for the patient It is very important to be truthful and honest with your doctor about your feelings and medical history. This is important because the specialist needs to ensure that the medications for PTSD do not interact with the already prescribed ones.
Devising a Treatment
After the initial discussion with your doctor, a personalized PTSD treatment plan is devised. This may include: Prescription of medication Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Dual diagnosis treatment (in case of addiction and PTSD) The level of care you require. Here, you can discuss if you have any questions related to the treatment. If not, the treatment can be initiated after the paperwork.
Insurance Verification and E-Registration
We accept insurance from most providers, such as Clover Health, Anthem, Cigna, etc. Medicaid and Medicare are also accepted at our facility. All you have to do is verify your insurance here. After this, you need to fill out the e-registration form that will be sent to you via email. This will include all the necessary information.
Initiation of Treatment and Follow-ups
Once all the paperwork is completed, your treatment can be started. Our specialists and the rest of the staff ensure you are monitored closely to check if the treatment is going well. After completing rehabilitation (if necessary), those with severe issues can also enroll in our aftercare program.
Understanding PTSD
About 40% of people with PTSD symptoms are likely to recover within a year. The rest of the people may need to adhere to treatment for longer. Something that makes PTSD challenging is that the symptoms may show up months or even years after the traumatic experience. The symptoms may include:
- Severe anxiousness
- Unable to stop thinking about the event
- Constant flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Associating the place with the event
- Avoiding thinking or talking about it
- Using substances to distract oneself
- Being withdrawn and irritable
- Getting scared easily
- Feeling triggered by hearing about a similar event
Warning Signs of PTSD
- Getting disturbing thoughts
- Suicide ideation
- Insomnia
- Issues in relationships
- Feeling overwhelmed and out of control
- Feeling depressed or numb
- Not feeling in control of your life
If you still feel overwhelmed a month after the event, get in touch with a mental health rehab. Contact 844.445.2565 or enter your information here.Â
Options at PTSD Treatment Centers
Treatments for PTSD include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Talking Therapies
- Antidepressant Medications (SSRIs)
Talking Therapies
Talking therapies include counseling, dialectical behavioral therapy, or even CBT. These are usually the first line of treatment recommended to people with PTSD. Many patients avoid talking about the experience, which can further worsen their condition. Talking about the situation and feeling your emotions properly can help the symptoms of PTSD. The types of talking therapies we offer are:
Looking for a PTSD therapist near you? Call 844.445.2565 or enter your information here to talk to someone experienced.Â
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
While CBT is a type of talking therapy, it is the most commonly used one for PTSD treatment. It is effective because:
- Helps patients navigate through emotions
- Alters the thinking patterns of the patients
 With the help of a specialist, patients can learn to deal with their emotions. By learning healthy strategies, patients can deal with triggers in a better way.Â
Antidepressant Medications (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants that are prescribed to patients with severe PTSD. SSRIs are given when:
- Other treatments have not worked
- The depression from PTSD is not addressed
- Talking therapies are not working
You may get a prescription for SSRIs if our specialist deems it necessary. The two antidepressants prescribed at our facility are:
- Paroxetine
- Sertraline
Both are FDA-approved as a treatment for PTSD. The FDA does not approve other depression medications for PTSD.Â
Formats for PTSD Treatment
Depending on your condition and preference, PTSD treatment can be taken in the following levels of care:
Correlation of PTSD and Addiction
Unfortunately, PTSD is also one of the most commonly occurring disorders with addiction. A nationwide study in the US showed that 44.6% of those with PTSD could also be diagnosed with a substance use disorder. It is considered a complex condition on its own, and when coupled with addiction, it can become even more challenging to live with. However, you are not alone in this.
In the case of PTSD and addiction, a dual diagnosis treatment can be taken in which both conditions are prescribed simultaneously. Some medications you may be prescribed for opioid addiction or alcohol addiction are:
Treat PTSD or other issues with ChoicePoint’s insurance-covered programs.Â
Frequently Asked QuestionsÂ
What Is It Like to Suffer From Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
PTSD exhibits itself in different ways, i.e., having flashbacks of traumatic experiences, nightmares, tremors, etc. It can feel very alienating and lonely because the signs of PTSD slowly show up. Therefore, it can be confusing at first. However, with professional help and appropriate diagnosis, individuals can deal with this condition effectively.
Is PTSD Self-treatable?
It is crucial to go for professional help rather than self-treatment. Unless you know you suffer from PTSD, you cannot treat it yourself. To understand why a traumatic experience is affecting you, it is important to have an appropriate diagnosis. Moreover, PTSD is a neuropsychiatric condition, meaning that it can be spotted in the brain, which is why a psychiatrist should treat it.
What Is the Difference Between Trauma and PTSD?
Trauma is a sudden response to any stressful event, while PTSD is a severe form that manifests itself after some time and may last for months or years. It is a debilitating condition. If trauma is not treated properly, it can progress into PTSD.
Is PTSD Genetic?
Unlike most mental illnesses, PTSD has not yet been considered a genetic disease. It develops after one experiences something traumatic and does not process it.
Does PTSD Change Your Brain?
Yes, PTSD can increase the brain’s sensitivity, causing it to trigger easily. If not treated timely, this condition can affect the proper functioning of the brain, like decision-making, concentration, or memory.
Will I Ever Be Normal After PTSD?
Yes, PTSD can gradually improve with time. Even if your case is severe, it can still be treated with professional help.
Medical Disclaimer:
ChoicePoint aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use disorder and mental health issues. Our team of licensed medical professionals research, edit and review the content before publishing. However, this information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice please consult your physicians or ChoicePoint's qualified staff.
Medical Disclaimer:
ChoicePoint aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use disorder and mental health issues. Our team of licensed medical professionals research, edit and review the content before publishing. However, this information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice please consult your physicians or ChoicePoint's qualified staff.