Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a diagnosis given to people who have symptoms after a extreme stress.Lately there has abeen much discussion of complex PTSD, a slightly different form of PTSD.   If you have PTSD symptoms, contact Damon G. LaBarbera, PhD, at Rockville Centre, New York. Dr. LaBarbera also offers telehealth services from Rockville Centre and Union City, New Jersey. Call or book an appointment online to begin the process of healing.

What is PTSD?

PTSD can develop after a terrifying, disturbing, or life-threatening experience such as combat or sexual assault or suicide of a family member.  

PTSD was first identified in soldiers returning from war and, in previous eras, given various names, such as shell shock. If there is litigation or potential disability,  the diagnosis can be trickier. 

What symptoms can PTSD cause?

PTSD symptoms--and the diagnosis can range from very mild to severe-- include autonomic arousal, avoidance of negative thoughts, attempts to manage stress in unhealthy ways, altered social patterns, and re-experiencing the traumatic event. Such individuals may experience unpleasant emotions such as sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, and detachment. Autonomic Arousal may include constant tension, difficulty relaxing, feeling dissociated or numbed, and enhanced startle reflex. Intrusive thoughts include recurring thoughts, memories, or nightmares focused on your trauma.

Avoidance behaviors are common with PTSD. The person may try to suppress the memories by refusing to talk about the trauma and avoiding anything that might prompt or trigger a memory or flashback.

How is PTSD treated?

PTSD treatment includes psychotherapy, learning relaxation techniques, processing traumatic memories, and regulating emotions. Treatment has come a long way in recent decades, and relief is more possible than ever before.

Psychotherapy provides a comfortable environment where you and Dr. LaBarbera can discuss your experience and its effects. He helps you deal with emotions and memories and offers practical advice on managing the daily problems PTSD can cause.

Call Damon G. LaBarbera, PhD, today or book an appointment online for authoritative help managing PTSD.