- What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
- How Is PTSD Treated?
- What Are the Causes and Symptoms of PTSD?
- What Are the Risk Factors for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Reviews
- How Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosed?
- Take Back Control
- Get In Touch
- Related Posts
What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop following traumatic events, frequently affecting military personnel, both veterans and active duty. Our specialized trauma therapists at Serenity Mental Health Centers are dedicated to assisting individuals with PTSD and their families in navigating and controlling the condition. Our approach enables patients to identify their triggers and develop strategies to manage them effectively. The path to recovery starts with customized trauma therapy and diverse treatment options at our Southlake, TX facility.
How Is PTSD Treated?
A range of treatment strategies exists for those suffering from PTSD. Medications like antidepressants often ease symptoms, while talk therapy is also a cornerstone in many treatment plans. Recognizing and managing triggers is a critical initial step. Our approach to PTSD treatment might encompass medication, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), ketamine therapy, or a mix, depending on each individual. These treatments have been proven to safely and significantly alleviate symptoms for many. Regardless of the chosen method, our team is dedicated to supporting you through your journey.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of PTSD?
PTSD is a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It may develop immediately after a traumatic event or take years to appear. Common triggers for PTSD include:
- Being in a car accident
- Losing a loved one
- Surviving domestic abuse
- Living through a natural disaster
- Experiencing military combat
PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time. Common signs include:
- Avoiding places or situations that remind you of the trauma
- Being easily startled
- Struggling with falling or staying asleep
- Experiencing sudden, intense anger
- Difficulty remembering details of the traumatic event
- Having flashbacks or nightmares related to the trauma
What Are the Risk Factors for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
PTSD can develop after a traumatic experience, and certain factors may increase the likelihood of its onset. Risk factors for PTSD include:
- Severe or prolonged trauma: Experiencing intense or long-lasting traumatic events
- Witnessing or experiencing trauma firsthand: Events such as combat, physical assault, accidents, or natural disasters
- History of childhood abuse: Experiencing neglect or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse at a young age
- High-risk occupations: Professions such as military service, first responders, or healthcare workers frequently exposed to traumatic situations
- Family history of mental health disorders: A genetic predisposition to conditions like anxiety or depression
- Pre-existing mental health conditions: Having prior diagnoses of anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders
- Lack of social support: Limited emotional support or social isolation following a traumatic event
- Chronic exposure to trauma: Repeated traumatic experiences, such as ongoing abuse or dangerous environments
- Substance abuse: Using alcohol or drugs, which can impair coping mechanisms
- Brain chemistry imbalances: Disruptions in stress hormone regulation that affect emotional processing
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Reviews
Dr. Cragg is phenomenal! He actually listens to me, I've never had a Dr (especially not a psychiatrist) do that before. The TMS techs Chloe and Lani are amazing! I'm blown away by the amazing care and staff and Serenity. I feel so lucky I just happened to find this office while looking on Google. Highly recommend.
Serenity Mental Health Centers in Southlake has a very kind and responsive staff! A breathe of fresh air when a lot of psychiatrist offices send you straight to a robot or voicemail!
Im writing this review mostly in regards to TMS tech, Chloe. She is a superstar. I did 36 TMS sessions and seeing her was my absolute favorite part of the entire experience. She is so kind and warm and I’ve never felt more comfortable expressing my feelings to anyone else outside of my husband. Seeing her on a daily basis helped me build my confidence as a patient and as a person. She encouraged me in my goals, validated my concerns and feelings, and just offered an understanding ear when I needed it. I truly believe that Chloe is 90% of my mental health recovery and the rest may be due to the tms and medication. A true angel on earth. If you are considering doing TMS here, I would highly suggest requesting her personally. The serenity office itself is not amazing. It’s hard to get a hold of anyone on the phone, sometimes I’m on hold for over 45 minutes to get to a representative and they’re only that, a representative. There’s no direct phone line for your specific office. There was also a change in many personnel during my time here, which isn’t great for mentally unstable folks. I did like dr. Andrew, but she left. Dr. Cragg has been able to help me with my current situation and I am forever thankful. But truly, Chloe single-handedly makes Serenity a 5 star establishment. The world is a much better place because Chloe exists and cares about what she does. There are not enough words to truly express the depth of my gratitude.
It is the idealistic thing not to come to doctor’s office often but if this place was a restaurant I would come here every single day!!!! ❤️❤️ Everyone here is amazing. Every. Single. One of them. I’ve had depression for so decades and been to so many treatment but serenity is the bestest of the bestest. I’m almost done with TMS treatment and I had a huge improvement but I honestly don’t think I would’ve made the same improvement if I were at different clinics. Unless I had to change my clinic due to insurance change, I will keep coming back to here whenever I feel down!
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How Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosed?
PTSD is diagnosed through a thorough evaluation conducted by one of our board-certified psychiatrists. The diagnostic process usually begins with a clinical interview, where we discuss your symptoms, history, and experiences related to the traumatic event. To gain a clearer understanding of the severity and frequency of your symptoms, we may also use standardized self-report questionnaires. Additionally, we assess for any co-occurring mental health conditions to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and to tailor an effective treatment plan. Your well-being is our priority, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
How common is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects a significant number of individuals around the world. In the United States alone, it's estimated that 6-9% of the population will experience PTSD at some stage in their lives. This mental health condition is particularly prevalent among veterans and first responders who regularly encounter traumatic events. Civilians who have undergone severe trauma, such as violent assaults, natural disasters, serious accidents, or the unexpected death of a loved one, are also at high risk. Increasing awareness of PTSD has led to more effective treatments and improved support systems.
How do PTSD symptoms differ between children and adults?
The manifestation of PTSD symptoms varies greatly between children and adults due to differences in their developmental stages. Younger children might express their distress through heightened clinginess, new fears, or regressive behaviors like bed-wetting. School-aged children may have difficulties with schoolwork and sleeping problems. Adolescents might engage in risky behavior, withdraw from friends and family, or experience intense mood swings. Recognizing these age-specific symptoms is crucial for providing appropriate interventions and support for each age group.
What factors raise the risk of developing PTSD?
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing PTSD following a traumatic event. Individuals with a history of mental health disorders, previous traumatic experiences, or a genetic predisposition to mental health issues are more susceptible. The intensity and duration of the trauma, along with the immediate availability and quality of support, significantly impact the risk. Personal interpretations of the trauma, such as feeling helpless, also play a critical role. On the other hand, a robust support network can mitigate the risk of PTSD, while a lack of support can heighten vulnerability.
Take Back Control
Serenity Mental Health Centers stands by, ready to support individuals grappling with PTSD. Our comprehensive treatment options span from prescription medications to transcranial magnetic stimulation, among others. Facing PTSD can be daunting for both the individual and their loved ones, yet with our team's expert assistance, you're not isolated in this journey. We're committed to helping you and your family understand, treat, and manage PTSD every step of the way. Contact our Southlake, TX office to learn more.