According to the American Psychiatric Association, PTSD affects approximately 3.5-percent of U.S. adults, and an estimated one in 11 people will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime. Women are twice as likely as men to have PTSD.
While many believe the mental health disorder only affects military veterans, many Americans who are not veterans of war also experience nightmares or flashbacks caused by PTSD. Those people often relive traumatic events – such as major accidents, sexual assault or witnessing trauma – which become seared in their memories and can negatively affect their mental health.
“PTSD affects individuals in many different ways,” said Dr. Juan-Carlos Zuberbuhler, a psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente Southern California. “There’s one common denominator, however. Those who suffer from PTSD can experience significant challenges when it comes to handling daily activities such as work, going to school or having healthy relationships with your spouse, children, friends and loved ones. That can often lead to social withdrawal, anxiety, shame, sleep disorders, or even suicide.”
Dr. Zuberbuhler, who practices at Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center, noted the simplest triggers can make someone with PTSD feel like their nervous system becomes hijacked by a panic reaction, and that can cause you to fight (get angry), flight (avoid) or freeze (feel numb).
He noted certain factors increase the chances of someone developing PTSD, including having directly experienced or repeatedly witnessed the aftermath of a very intense or long-lasting traumatic event. “Thus, in addition to direct victims, many first responders or healthcare providers can be at risk for developing PTSD,” he explained.
According to Dr. Zuberbuhler, doing the following may improve a person’s path to recovery from PTSD:
• In times of anxiety, reassure and comfort yourself.
• Always attend scheduled counseling sessions and doctor’s appointments.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and illegal drug use, as they can raise your anxiety level and cause problems with sleeping.
• Make sure you get sufficient rest.
• Exercise.
• Use proven relaxation techniques.
• Get involved in your community.
Because there are times when PTSD can cause severe anxiety and other mental health challenges,
Dr. Zuberbuhler emphasized the importance of knowing when to seek help.
“If you start thinking about hurting yourself or others, then call 911,” he said. “Additionally, if your symptoms get worse, or you feel your state of mental health isn’t improving, contact your health care provider.”
Kaiser Permanente offers valuable care instructions for those with PTSD.
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