Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It can affect anyone, regardless of background, and often has a profound impact on daily functioning and emotional well-being.
At Evergreen Behavioral Health, we are dedicated to providing empathetic, thorough care for individuals struggling with PTSD. Our goal is to guide each person toward healing and long-term recovery.
Understanding PTSD
PTSD can manifest in various ways, depending on how symptoms present and how long they persist.
- Normal Stress Response PTSD: This form arises after a traumatic event and typically resolves over time with adequate support. Symptoms such as anxiety, sadness, or difficulty focusing may occur but tend to improve naturally as the individual processes the trauma.
- Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): ASD involves the immediate onset of symptoms after trauma, often lasting up to several weeks. If these symptoms persist beyond a month, the condition may progress into PTSD.
- Uncomplicated PTSD: This type involves the hallmark symptoms of PTSD, such as intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, and increased arousal, without the presence of other mental health disorders.
- Complex PTSD (C-PTSD): Stemming from prolonged or repeated traumatic experiences—such as childhood neglect or ongoing abuse—C-PTSD can cause deep emotional pain, difficulty forming relationships, and a fractured sense of identity.
- Comorbid PTSD: In this form, PTSD occurs alongside other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. Effective treatment often requires an integrated, multidisciplinary approach.
Each type of PTSD requires an individualized treatment strategy. This may include various forms of therapy, medication, or holistic approaches tailored to support each person’s unique path toward recovery and renewed stability.
Effects of PTSD
PTSD is more than just emotional turmoil—it can influence virtually every facet of a person’s life. While its psychological symptoms are widely recognized, PTSD also exerts significant physical and social effects. By disrupting the body’s natural stress regulation, the condition can strain relationships, hinder career progress, and compromise overall health and well-being.
A comprehensive understanding of PTSD’s emotional, physical, and social consequences is essential for effective treatment and long-term recovery.
Physical Effects of PTSD
Though PTSD is a mental health condition, its impact often manifests physically. Individuals may suffer from persistent fatigue, frequently due to disrupted sleep caused by nightmares or insomnia. The body may remain in a heightened state of arousal—marked by increased heart rate, muscle tension, and elevated blood pressure—which takes a toll over time.
Chronic stress weakens the immune system and raises susceptibility to illness. Many people with PTSD also report recurring pain, tension headaches, or digestive problems, all tied to the prolonged release of stress hormones like cortisol. Left unaddressed, this chronic state can lead to more severe health issues such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, or autoimmune disorders.
Additionally, some individuals may use alcohol, tobacco, or drugs to cope with symptoms. While offering temporary relief, these substances can compound physical problems and delay healing.
Mental and Emotional Impact of PTSD
PTSD often disrupts emotional well-being in powerful ways. Individuals may relive traumatic experiences through flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or panic attacks, especially when triggered by certain environments or situations. Emotional numbness is also common—making it difficult to feel joy, empathy, or connection with others.
Depression and anxiety frequently coexist with PTSD, intensifying feelings of fear, hopelessness, or despair. Emotional regulation can become challenging, leading to outbursts of anger, mood swings, or irritability. Many also wrestle with guilt or shame, particularly when they internalize blame for the trauma they endured.
In more severe cases, the emotional burden can give rise to suicidal ideation. This underscores the urgent need for compassionate professional care, strong support systems, and access to safe, healing spaces.
How PTSD Affects Social Life
The social effects of PTSD can be just as debilitating. Many individuals retreat from relationships and avoid social settings due to feelings of mistrust, fear, or emotional disconnection. Everyday social interactions—even those once comforting—can feel overwhelming or threatening.
This tendency to withdraw often leads to loneliness and further emotional distress. Strained communication and behavioral shifts can place pressure on close relationships, particularly with partners, family members, or friends who may not fully understand the condition.
In professional or academic environments, PTSD can hinder focus, stress tolerance, and emotional regulation, which may result in poor performance, lost opportunities, or job loss. These setbacks can intensify feelings of isolation or inadequacy.
Stigma also plays a damaging role. Fear of judgment or misunderstanding can prevent individuals from seeking help, deepening the cycle of suffering and making recovery more difficult.
Signs of PTSD
PTSD can affect individuals in diverse and complex ways. Its symptoms may show up across physical, behavioral, and psychological domains—sometimes subtly at first—making early recognition challenging. Gaining awareness of these signs is a vital first step toward seeking help, obtaining a proper diagnosis, and beginning the journey to recovery.
Physical Signs of PTSD
PTSD impacts more than just emotional well-being—it can take a significant toll on physical health. Many of these symptoms stem from the body’s prolonged exposure to stress and its heightened fight-or-flight response.
- Persistent fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty sleeping, including insomnia or nightmares
- Increased heart rate or elevated blood pressure
- Muscle tightness, soreness, or general aches
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Digestive discomfort, nausea, or stomach pain
- Weakened immune system and frequent illness
- Sweating, trembling, or shaking
- Shortness of breath or feelings of breathlessness
Behavioral Signs of PTSD
Behavioral changes often emerge as individuals attempt to manage or avoid trauma-related triggers. These patterns may reflect coping mechanisms or efforts to regain control in overwhelming situations.
- Avoidance of specific places, people, or activities tied to the trauma
- Social withdrawal or isolation from friends and family
- Loss of interest in hobbies or once-enjoyed activities
- Changes in appetite or sleep routines
- Engagement in risky or self-harming behaviors
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs as a form of escape
- Sudden outbursts of anger, irritability, or aggression
- Difficulty staying focused or concentrating on tasks
Psychological Signs of PTSD
The mental and emotional effects of PTSD can be deeply disruptive. These symptoms often interfere with relationships, personal fulfillment, and daily functioning.
- Flashbacks or intense recollections of the traumatic event
- Intrusive, distressing thoughts or recurring nightmares
- Heightened anxiety or unexpected panic attacks
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or depression
- Overwhelming guilt, shame, or self-blame
- Emotional numbness or a sense of detachment from reality
- Hypervigilance or being easily startled
- Difficulty trusting others or forming close connections
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
How to Treat PTSD
Recovering from PTSD often requires an individualized treatment plan that blends therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. Though living with PTSD can be difficult, many people find significant relief and progress through a supportive combination of professional guidance and personal effort. The best treatment approach depends on the individual’s unique trauma history, symptom intensity, and personal needs.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy is a foundational element of PTSD treatment. It helps individuals process traumatic memories, manage symptoms, and develop healthier coping strategies. Several proven therapeutic methods include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns related to their trauma.
- Exposure Therapy: Gradually and safely exposes individuals to trauma-related cues, reducing fear and avoidance behaviors over time.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements in conjunction with recalling traumatic events to help the brain reprocess memories in a less distressing way.
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Focuses on examining and reframing distorted beliefs and interpretations linked to trauma.
- Group Therapy: Provides a supportive environment where individuals can connect with others who have experienced similar challenges.
- Family or Couples Therapy: Enhances communication, fosters empathy, and strengthens support systems among loved ones.
Medication Support
Medications may be recommended to ease certain PTSD symptoms and are often used alongside therapy for a more comprehensive approach. Common options include:
- SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Medications like sertraline (Zoloft) or paroxetine (Paxil) that help alleviate anxiety and depression.
- SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): Such as venlafaxine (Effexor), often used to manage mood and anxiety symptoms.
- Prazosin: Prescribed primarily to reduce trauma-related nightmares and improve sleep quality.
- Mood Stabilizers or Antipsychotic Medications: Sometimes considered for more severe cases involving mood instability or dissociative symptoms.
While medications can offer symptom relief, they’re most effective when integrated into a broader, multifaceted treatment plan.
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care Practices
Small, intentional changes in daily habits can play a big role in supporting recovery. While not a substitute for therapy or medication, lifestyle shifts often enhance well-being and promote resilience.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity—like walking, dancing, or yoga—naturally boosts mood-lifting chemicals in the brain.
- Healthy Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and nutrients can help regulate mood and energy.
- Quality Sleep: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule improves emotional stability and energy levels.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, meditation, or spending time in nature can reduce mental tension.
- Social Connection: Maintaining supportive relationships and participating in community or support groups helps reduce isolation.
Social and Emotional Support
Strong social connections play a crucial role in recovery. Whether it’s emotional encouragement or practical help, a reliable support system makes the journey more manageable.
- Open Communication: Talking with trusted friends or loved ones can offer emotional relief and perspective.
- Support Groups: Sharing experiences in peer-led or therapeutic groups—online or in person—can reduce feelings of isolation.
- Professional Guidance: Working with therapists, counselors, or life coaches provides structure, tools, and accountability.
Holistic and Complementary Therapies
In addition to standard treatments, some individuals find comfort in alternative therapies that nurture the body and mind. These options can complement medical care when used responsibly:
- Acupuncture or massage therapy for physical relaxation and emotional release
- Aromatherapy to create calming, sensory environments
- Art or music therapy for expressing difficult emotions creatively
- Herbal treatments like chamomile, valerian root, or CBD products may offer symptom relief—though consultation with a healthcare provider is essential before use.
Get PTSD Treatment in South Portland, Maine
If you’re ready to take back control and move forward with strength, Evergreen Behavioral Health is here to help. Our compassionate team is dedicated to walking alongside you throughout your recovery journey, offering personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Through evidence-based therapies, holistic support, and a nurturing environment, we strive to create the foundation for lasting relief and personal transformation.
Call us at (888) 907-7290, email info@evergreenbh.com, or visit us in person at 707 Sable Oaks Drive in South Portland, ME (04106).
We’re here for you 24/7—you don’t have to face PTSD alone.