Holistic Healing Psychiatry

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PTSD

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as military combat, natural disasters, accidents, or personal assault. Individuals with PTSD may relive the trauma through flashbacks or nightmares, avoid reminders of the event, and experience heightened anxiety or emotional numbness.

Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but they are typically grouped into four main categories: intrusion, avoidance, negative changes in mood and cognition, and hyperarousal. These symptoms can significantly impair daily functioning and relationships. Below are the key features of each category:

1.Intrusion Symptoms:

2.Avoidance Symptoms:

3.Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition:

4.Hyperarousal Symptoms:

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Diagnosing PTSD requires a comprehensive assessment that includes:

Clinical Interview:

  • Comprehensive assessment of trauma exposure and symptoms.

  • Use of diagnostic tools such as the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5).

Functional Assessment:

  • Impact of symptoms on daily life and relationships.

Co-occurring Conditions:

  • Screening for depression, substance use, and anxiety disorders.

Structured Diagnostic Interviews:

  • Tools like the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) are used for formal diagnosis.

Trauma Timeline:

  • Evaluation of trauma history over time to understand patterns and identify chronic vs. acute responses.

Risk and Safety Assessment:

  • Evaluation of self-harm, suicidal ideation, or aggressive behavior associated with hyperarousal or dissociation.