POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)

People who experience a stressful, frightening, distressing single event or prolonged traumatic event(s) may develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). People with PTSD experience flashbacks, nightmares and intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to the traumatic experience(s). Pictures, places, words or objects associated with the traumatic event(s) triggered them, leading to intense fear. 

 

People with PTSD often feel extreme sadness, fear or anger and a sense of being alone in their fears. Trauma survivors with PTSD are often hyper-vigilant for any sign of danger. Because of it, they sometimes have difficulty focussing on the task at hands.

 

Signs that someone may have a PTSD include:

•  Having distressing and recurrent memories of the traumatic event

•  Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious about any object, people or event associated with the traumatic experience

•  Easily startled or frightened

•  Avoiding places or things that brings a reminder of the trauma

•  Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

•  Lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy

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COMPLEX POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (CPTSD)

A closely related condition to PTSD is Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). It is a relatively new term that has gained more recognition. While people may develop PTSD from a single or repeated experience, CPTSD results from repeated or ongoing trauma that usually occurs in early childhood. The onset of CPTSD includes emotional neglect, childhood abuse, domestic violence or sexual trauma.

 

Most symptoms of CPTSD are similar to PTSD but also include:

•    Difficulty managing or controlling emotions

•    Difficulty maintaining relationships

•    Strong feelings of guilt or worthlessness

•    Constant feelings of hopelessness or emptiness

•    Physical symptoms such as headaches, chest pains or stomachaches 

•    Suicidal ideations

 

Restoring Peace Counselling & Consultancy provides a safe space to process the traumatic experience that causes PTSD and CPTSD. For more information, please email us at contact@restoringpeace.com.sg.