Stress Disorders / PTSD Treatment
Stress is often described as a feeling of being overwhelmed, worried or run-down. Stress can affect people of all ages, genders and circumstances and can lead to both physical and psychological health issues. By definition, stress is any uncomfortable “emotional experience accompanied by predictable biochemical, physiological and behavioral changes.”Some stress can be beneficial at times, producing a boost that provides the drive and energy to help people get through situations like exams or work deadlines. However, an extreme amount of stress can have health consequences and adversely affect the immune, cardiovascular, neuroendocrine and central nervous systems.
Acute / Chronic Stress Disorder
Remember if a high stress level continues for a long period of time, or if potential problems from stress continue to interfere with activities of daily living, it is important to reach out to a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist. Research has shown that chronic stress can be treated with appropriate interventions such as lifestyle and behavior change, therapy, and in some situations, medication. A psychologist can help you overcome the barriers that are stopping you from living a healthy life, manage stress effectively and help identify behaviors and situations that are contributing to your consistently high stress level.
PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is different than most mental illnesses, because it is triggered solely by a disturbing event. Many adults can suffer from PTSD due to a wide range of traumatic experiences that placed them at risk for sexual violation, injury, or death. Examples include sexual assault, witnessing violent death while serving in war, car crashes, etc. The treatment for PTSD include grief counseling and cognitive psychotherapy—a type of therapy where a trained professional guides the traumatized individual in talking about the experience. Certain medications have also been approved for the use of PTSD.
