PTSD Specialist

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after you experience or witness a traumatic event.

Potential triggers for PTSD can include:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Violence
• Car accidents
• Military service
• Substance abuse
• Natural disasters

The reason some people develop PTSD symptoms after a traumatic event and others don’t isn’t well understood. However, your risk can increase if you have another mental health disorder, such as depression and anxiety, or because of a history of recurrent trauma.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

Some people develop PTSD symptoms soon after the event, while others may not experience symptoms until months or years later.

Symptoms of PTSD can include:

• Intrusive thoughts
• Negative thoughts
• Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• Memory problems
• Easily startled
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulties concentrating

You may also isolate yourself from people, places, or situations that remind you of the events.

If you have symptoms of PTSD that you can’t manage on your own, you can find help at Waterside Psychiatry. The team offers online mental health evaluations through a telehealth platform, so you can meet with your provider without having to travel to an office.

They can confirm a PTSD diagnosis by asking you questions about your symptoms and reviewing your medical history. If you need treatment for PTSD, they design a treatment plan to minimize your symptoms and help you achieve a higher quality of life.

How is PTSD treated?

The Waterside Psychiatry takes a compassionate approach to your treatment and offers the resources you need to keep your PTSD symptoms under control.

A combination of therapies can help you regain a sense of well-being and a feeling of control over your life. The team may recommend:

• Lifestyle changes
• Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Exposure therapy

In some cases, you may need antidepressants or other medications to help you manage your symptoms more effectively.

The team continues to monitor your progress with treatment through routine checkups via the telehealth platform. You can meet with your provider from the comfort of your home or wherever you are to ensure the therapies are working.

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of PTSD, call Waterside Psychiatry today or book an appointment online.