Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Diagnosis

Diagnosing post-traumatic stress disorder involves a combination of physical and psychological evaluations. A healthcare professional begins with a physical exam to rule out any medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms. This is followed by a mental health evaluation that includes a discussion about symptoms and the traumatic event that preceded them. Questionnaires may also be used to understand the experiences and emotional effects more clearly.

A diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an event that involved an actual or potential threat of death, serious injury or violence. This exposure may occur in several ways:

• Directly experiencing a traumatic event

• Witnessing the event as it happens to others

• Learning about trauma affecting a close family member or friend

• Repeated exposure to distressing details of traumatic events, which is common among first responders

Symptoms that last for more than a month and seriously affect work life, relationships and social functioning may indicate PTSD. It is important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional rather than trying to manage the symptoms alone.

Treatment

Treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder focuses on helping individuals regain a sense of control and stability in their lives. The primary treatment is psychotherapy, often called talk therapy, though medicines may also be used. A combination of therapies can improve symptoms by teaching coping skills, changing negative thought patterns, managing emotional responses and addressing related conditions such as anxiety, depression or substance misuse.

Psychotherapy for PTSD includes several approaches that may be used for both adults and children. Exposure therapy is a type of behavioral treatment that helps individuals gradually and safely confront memories or situations they fear, allowing them to gain confidence and reduce distress. In some cases, virtual reality tools help recreate traumatic environments in a controlled way. Cognitive therapy focuses on patterns of thinking that may be contributing to ongoing fear or self-doubt, and it is often paired with exposure therapy. Therapists may also teach stress management techniques, including relaxation practices, sleep strategies and exercise routines. These approaches aim to help reduce long-term fear and improve day-to-day functioning. Therapy may be done individually, in groups or in both formats to offer connection and support.

Medicines can also help improve PTSD symptoms. Antidepressants are frequently prescribed to ease anxiety, depression, sleep problems and concentration issues. Sertraline and paroxetine are FDA-approved to treat PTSD, while venlafaxine may also be used. Anti-anxiety medicines can help short-term severe anxiety but are usually prescribed for limited periods because of the risk of misuse.

Research continues to explore additional treatment options. Stellate ganglion block involves injecting medicine near nerves in the neck and may offer symptom relief, although it is not FDA-approved for PTSD. Prazosin, often used for high blood pressure, has shown mixed results in reducing nightmares. A healthcare professional can help determine the safest and most effective medication approach. It may take several weeks to notice improvement, and adjustments in dosage or medication type are sometimes needed.

Sharing any side effects or concerns with a healthcare professional ensures that treatment can be tailored for the best results. Finding the right combination of therapies and medicines can significantly improve quality of life for people living with PTSD.