The 5 Signs You May Have PTSD and How EMDR Can Help
What is PTSD?
What exactly is PTSD, and how does it impact the lives of those who struggle with it? Let's examine this condition in greater detail to learn more about its causes, signs, and treatments.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as a war, an assault, or a natural disaster. More commonly, PTSD shows up from traumas that happen at home or school, such as childhood abuse, sexual abuse, or bullying. Although it's common to experience intense emotional reactions to traumatic events, PTSD is characterized by enduring symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and prevent social integration.
Many studies and data reveal the prevalence and consequences of PTSD, According to the National Center for PTSD:
About 8 of every 100 women (8%) and 4 of every 100 men (4%) will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
Furthermore, untreated PTSD can lead to a range of negative outcomes, such as substance abuse, depression, and even suicide.
If you're wondering whether you might have PTSD, here are five signs to look out for:
Five Signs That Indicate You Might Have PTSD
1. Intrusive Thoughts and Memories
Intrusive thoughts and memories can be incredibly distressing for those who have experienced trauma. They can come on suddenly and without warning, triggering intense emotions and physical sensations that feel very real. Flashbacks, for example, can make it feel like the traumatic event is happening all over again, making it difficult to enjoy the day, sleep, or even want to get out of bed in the first place.
One of the most challenging aspects of these intrusive thoughts and memories is their unpredictability. They can happen at any time—while driving, working, or spending time with friends or family—making planning or engaging in everyday activities difficult. For some people with PTSD, certain triggers may set off these intrusive thoughts and memories more than others. This could be anything from a particular smell or sound to a specific location or situation.
Many people with PTSD struggle with anxiety and depression as a result of these symptoms. They may find themselves avoiding situations that could trigger flashbacks or nightmares, leading to social isolation and feelings of loneliness. In severe cases, they may even experience dissociation—feeling disconnected from their body or surroundings—as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions.
2. Avoidance Behaviors
The distressing thoughts and memories associated with trauma can be so overwhelming that some individuals will do anything to avoid them.
Avoidance can take many forms, from avoiding certain places or people to numbing oneself with drugs or alcohol. Some people who suffer from this may distract themselves from their emotions by overworking, overeating, or engaging in other compulsive behaviors. While these strategies may provide temporary relief, they ultimately prevent individuals from processing their trauma and moving forward healthily.
3. Hypervigilance
People with PTSD may also experience hypervigilance, which is a constant state of high alertness for potential danger. It's like having an alarm system that's always on, ready to sound at the slightest provocation. This can make individuals feel jumpy and easily startled as if any sudden movement or noise could trigger a full-blown panic attack.
Hypervigilance can also lead to feelings of irritability and anger. Imagine feeling like you're constantly under threat—your heart racing, your palms sweating, and your mind racing with thoughts of danger lurking around every corner. This is the reality for many people living with PTSD.
4. Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition
Feeling hopeless about the future is common for many people with PTSD, and this can make it feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. People with PTSD may lose interest in activities that once brought them joy or struggle to concentrate and remember things.
These negative changes in mood and cognition can be complicated to manage because they feel so all-encompassing. It's not just a matter of feeling sad or anxious; it's like a fog has descended over one's entire life, making everything feel heavy and overwhelming.
5. Physical Symptoms
It's important to recognize that PTSD isn't just a mental health condition; it can also have physical manifestations. If you find yourself experiencing headaches, stomachaches, chest pain, or other physical symptoms of stress following a traumatic event (or events), you may be suffering from PTSD. Consider consulting with a therapist at the first sign of these symptoms to get the care you deserve.
How Does EDMR Therapy Aid in the Treatment of PTSD?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based intervention used to treat PTSD. This form of therapy utilizes bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, while a person remembers traumatic experiences with a therapist to help the brain reorganize them into less distressing memories.
EMDR therapy is a highly effective treatment for PTSD. Here are two key ways that EMDR can help individuals who are struggling with this condition:
Reducing the intensity of traumatic memories: By using bilateral stimulation while recalling traumatic memories, EMDR can help to reduce the emotional charge associated with these memories. This can make them feel less overwhelming over time (National Library of Medicine)
Addressing negative beliefs about oneself: Many people with PTSD struggle with negative beliefs about themselves that developed as a result of their trauma (such as feeling helpless or powerless). EMDR can help to identify and reprocess these negative beliefs, allowing individuals to develop more positive and empowering self-concepts (edmr.com)
By reducing symptoms of PTSD and improving overall mental health, EMDR can help individuals regain control over their lives and start living more fully again. If you’re still skeptical about EDMR, read more in our previous post on the common misconceptions about EMDR therapy to gain an even deeper understanding of how it can help.
Closing Thoughts
If you think you might have PTSD but are hesitant about seeking treatment due to stigma or misconceptions about therapy approaches like EMDR, remember that seeking help is an act of strength rather than weakness. With support and resources, it's possible to heal from trauma and live a fulfilling life once again.
If this impacts you or someone close to you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are dedicated to providing excellent support with EMDR therapy in the Denver area to help you.