PTSD

The condition may last months or years, with triggers that can bring back memories of the trauma accompanied by intense emotional and physical reactions.

Symptoms may include nightmares or flashbacks, avoidance of situations that bring back the trauma, heightened reactivity to stimuli, anxiety, or depressed mood.

Treatment includes different types of psychotherapy as well as medications to manage symptoms.

Therapies

Cognitive behavioral therapy: A talk therapy focused on modifying negative thoughts, behaviors, and emotional responses associated with psychological distress.

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Psychological treatment that reduces the stress of traumatic events through eye movements.

Exposure and response prevention: A talk therapy based on exposing feared or traumatic experiences within a safe setting in order to help reduce any associated psychological distress.

Medications

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI): Eases symptoms of depressed mood and anxiety.

Sertraline (Zoloft)

Fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, and Prozac Weekly)

Paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva, and Paxil CR)

Specialists

Clinical psychologist: Treats mental disorders primarily with talk therapy.

Psychiatrist: Treats mental disorders primarily with medications.

Resources:

American Psychiatric Association

Nebraska Veterans Affairs

Psychology Today

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA)

Veteran Disability Compensation

Wounded Warrior Project

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by trauma. Symptoms include severe anxiety, flashbacks, depression, nightmares, and confusion.

Approximately half of those that meet the criteria for PTSD ever seek help from a physician or mental health professional.

We've gathered some videos and information that you might find useful. If you or a loved one are suffering from PTSD, help is available to you at www.ptsd.va.gov

Losing My Friends is Always on My Mind: