PTSD
PTSD and Trauma-Related Disorders
Healing from trauma is possible with the right support. Those with PTSD and trauma-related disorders may experience intrusive memories, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, and avoidance that persist long after the traumatic event. Trauma can reshape how you see yourself, others, and the world, affecting relationships, work, and daily functioning. These conditions develop after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events and require specialized treatment. If you're struggling with the aftermath of trauma, please discuss your symptoms with our qualified clinicians.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Approximately 6% of the U.S. population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, with higher rates among veterans and trauma survivors. While PTSD can develop at any age, it most commonly appears following exposure to trauma.
PTSD is not a sign of weakness—it is a normal response to abnormal experiences. The brain’s stress response becomes dysregulated, causing symptoms that can be debilitating without treatment. Related conditions include acute stress disorder and adjustment disorders.
PTSD Symptoms In Adolescents
Recognizing trauma responses in adolescents requires attention to behavioral changes, as teens may express trauma differently than adults. Parents and educators should look for the following signs. Their home and school environment should be observed.
Re-experiencing Symptoms:
- Nightmares about the event
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks
- Distress at reminders of the trauma
- Physical reactions to triggers
- Repetitive play reenacting the trauma
- Difficulty discussing the event
- Emotional distress when reminded
- Dissociative episodes
Avoidance and Arousal Symptoms:
- Avoiding people, places, or activities related to trauma
- Emotional withdrawal and numbness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability and angry outbursts
- Hypervigilance
- Exaggerated startle response
- Difficulty concentrating
- Regression to younger behaviors
Signs And Symptoms In Adults
PTSD is diagnosed in adults when symptoms persist for more than one month after a traumatic event and cause significant distress or impairment. Diagnosis can be complex because symptoms may overlap with depression, anxiety, or substance use.
Intrusion Symptoms:
- Recurrent, involuntary memories
- Distressing dreams
- Flashbacks (feeling like the event is happening again)
- Intense distress at reminders
- Physical reactions to cues
- Difficulty distinguishing past from present
- Intrusive thoughts
- Sensory re-experiencing
- Emotional flooding
Other Symptoms:
- Avoidance of reminders
- Inability to remember aspects of the trauma
- Negative beliefs about self or world
- Persistent negative emotions
- Feeling detached from others
- Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle
- Sleep disturbances
- Irritability and anger
Our Treatment Approach for PTSD
What Causes PTSD
PTSD develops after exposure to traumatic events. Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD—individual factors influence vulnerability.
Risk factors include:
- Severity and duration of trauma
- Previous trauma exposure
- Lack of social support
- Pre-existing mental health conditions
- Family history of mental illness
How Is PTSD Treated
PTSD is treatable, with evidence-based therapies showing significant effectiveness. Most individuals experience substantial symptom reduction with appropriate treatment.
Treatment options include:
- Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Medication Management
For many individuals, medication can provide meaningful relief from PTSD symptoms including depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances associated with trauma. Our providers evaluate whether medication may be beneficial as part of comprehensive trauma care. It is important to consult a mental health provider to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Behavioral Therapy
Trauma-focused therapies are highly effective for PTSD, helping individuals process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact. Adults can benefit from evidence-based approaches that promote healing and recovery.
Areas of focus include:
- Processing traumatic memories safely
- Reducing avoidance behaviors
- Challenging unhelpful beliefs about the trauma
- Building coping and grounding skills
- Restoring sense of safety and control
Lifestyle Changes
- Building a strong support network
- Practicing grounding and relaxation techniques
- Maintaining regular routines
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Limiting alcohol and substance use
- Prioritizing sleep hygiene
Find Help With Your Anxiety At
We offer comprehensive treatment plans for people with PTSD and trauma-related disorders. Depending on the client’s needs, this may include medication management and supportive therapy.
Coded Healthcare also offers telepsychiatry as an option for patients who opt for the convenience of their homes. Being unable to come into the office should not prohibit anyone from receiving trauma treatment services. We will tailor a treatment plan to fit your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Question
What should I do if I or a loved one think they have PTSD?
Contact a mental health provider to discuss your symptoms. Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and support recovery.
How long after a trauma can PTSD develop?
Contact a mental health provider to discuss your symptoms. Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and support recovery.
How is PTSD diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, trauma history, and functional impact. Validated assessment tools may be used.
How can Coded Healthcare help with my PTSD?
Our clinicians provide trauma-informed care including evidence-based therapy, medication management, and supportive treatment tailored to your needs.