PTSD AWARENESS MONTH Week No. 2 (6.12.23)

 

PTSD RISK FACTORS & TREATMENTS

Genetic Factors

Research continues to explore the role of genetics in the development of PTSD. There have been studies showing genetic influence on the development of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, and researchers are finding genetic influence in the development of PTSD as well.

Societal Factors

Social support, or lack of, is a critical risk factor. Those who are limited in options for social support can be at greater risk for PTSD. After the traumatic event, the need for safe support resources is essential to help individuals process their experience in a healthy way and to regain hope through secure and safe emotional connections.

Biological and Neurological Factors

Two risk factors that have been shown to possibly influence the development of PTSD after trauma are IQ and neuroticism. Those who tend to score lower on IQ tests have been shown to be more susceptible to developing PTSD.

In addition, people who have greater neuroticism have shown to be more likely to have PTSD.⁷

Other Factors

Another risk factor in the development of PTSD after a traumatic event is having experienced another trauma in the past. The impact of trauma has been found to have a cumulative effect. This means that a trauma survivor who did not previously show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder could develop PTSD after subsequent trauma.

A history of struggling with a mental health condition prior to the traumatic event can also be a risk factor in the development of PTSD. It has been shown that existing mood disorders, anxiety-related disorders, and conduct disorders can be influential risk factors.

Life stressors are a risk factor as well. When people are currently experiencing life stressors such as divorce, financial strain, work stress, or for children who are experiencing emotional challenges at school or home, the likelihood of developing PTSD can increase.

The nature of the triggering event is something to consider as an influential factor. It has been shown that the more intense the event, such as witnessing death or extreme violence or having been injured during the traumatic event, can be a risk factor. When someone has experienced physical pain as a result of their trauma, such as with sexual abuse, the risk of PTSD can be greater, since the physical pain is a reminder of the traumatic event.

HOW IS PTSD TREATED?

 

Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options. Treatments include medications and psychotherapy, either alone or in combination.

 

Medication

Antidepressants: Drugs that are used specifically for treating viral infections. These medications are effective when taken within 48 hours after the symptoms appear.

·        Sertraline

·        Paroxetine

·        Bupropion

 

Therapy

·        Cognitive behavior therapy: Changing the thought process.

·        Exposure therapy: Re-living the traumatic incident.

·        Psychodynamic therapy: Handling personal values and emotional conflicts.

·        Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): Changing the thought process based on a series of eye movements.

 

Self-care

·        Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

·        Get timely help and treatment.

·        Follow your treatment plan without fail.

·        Take your medications as prescribed at the right time.

 

Specialist To Consult

·        Psychologist: Specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the brain, emotional disturbance, and behavior problems.

·        Psychiatrist: Specializes in the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness.