Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by traumatic events. These events can include sexual assault, war, crime, fire, traffic collisions, or natural disasters. People with PTSD may feel an intensified sense of danger, causing them to feel stressed or fearful, even in safe situations. Some people who have experienced a traumatic incident may not develop PTSD. Furthermore, there is no way to determine who trauma will impact. Unfortunately, the condition can alter a person’s life, preventing them from successfully navigating their job, relationships, and the enjoyment of everyday activities.
At Crossroads Maine, we understand that dealing with traumatic experiences can be very challenging. We help women overcome the challenges of PTSD and live a healthier, more balanced life in recovery. Learn more about the treatment options available to you or a loved one online or by calling 877.978.1667.
PTSD Can Lead to Fear And Anxiety
Those who have experienced a traumatic, possibly life-threatening event may experience intense feelings of fear and anxiety beginning a month or so after the event. These powerful emotions interfere with a woman’s ability to manage the everyday routines of life as the re-experiencing of the event may seemingly paralyze them.
They may see reminders of the trauma all around them, causing fear to simmer below the surface of their conscious mind continuously. Although the threat is no longer viable, the terror and distress that a person feels bring on strong emotions associated with anxiety such as:
- Hypervigilance
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or aggressive behavior
- Heightened and persistent nervousness
- Feelings of impending doom
Fear and anxiety prohibit a woman who has suffered trauma from moving forward with her life. However, it does not have to be this way. Treatment for PTSD is available, and a person can learn to manage their fears, control the anxiety, and face the triggers head-on. Find out how Crossroads Maine can help you or a loved one tackle the challenges of PTSD by calling 877.978.1667.
PTSD Can Lead to Flashbacks And Nightmares
It is common for those who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event to re-experience the trauma through intrusive and recurring flashbacks and nightmares.
A flashback is a vivid experience in which a person relives some aspect of the traumatic event as if it is happening right now. They may experience increased heart rate, seeing images of the event, and feeling physical sensations such as pain or pressure.
Many people who experience PTSD may also struggle with insomnia since they fear the nightmares that infiltrate and invade their minds when they fall asleep. Unfortunately, nightmares can be distressing and disruptive to the much-needed rest that nurses the individual back to health. Furthermore, intrusive memories may cause severe emotional stress and even physical reactions during the night.
Common Signs of PTSD in Women
Women are twice as likely as men to develop signs of PTSD after a traumatic event. However, symptoms may not surface in women for several years. As a result, recognizing the signs of PTSD is critical to ensure that they receive proper diagnosis and treatment. Women experiencing PTSD are likely to display the following behaviors:
- Become easily startled
- Difficulty sleeping and experiencing recurring nightmares
- Experience depression and anxiety
- Intense feelings of anger and guilt
- Paralyzing fear
- Extreme nervousness and avoidance of activities
If someone displays several of these symptoms, it’s critical to find treatment as soon as possible.
Reach Out to Crossroads Maine
It’s vital for those who experience PTSD to be open and honest about their traumatic experience and their feelings and emotions about it. An experienced mental health professional can help to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
At Crossroads Maine, we offer treatment options to help women experiencing PTSD to regain control of their lives and build a brighter future through a broad range of treatment options and programs, including:
If you or a woman you know struggles with PTSD, contact us through the online form or call 877.978.1667 today.
