Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
What Is PTSD?
PTSD develops when the mind cannot properly process a distressing event, causing symptoms that last more than one month and significantly impair daily functioning. The World Health Organization’s PTSD Fact Sheet notes that while many recover naturally, roughly 20% of trauma-exposed individuals develop persistent symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms fall into four main categories and may emerge immediately or be delayed by months or years:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Intrusions | Flashbacks, nightmares, vivid distressing memories, physical reactions (sweating, pain) |
| Avoidance | Steering clear of reminders—places, people, conversations—or emotional numbing |
| Negative Cognitions & Mood | Persistent guilt or shame, distorted blame of self/others, loss of interest in activities |
| Altered Arousal & Reactivity | Hypervigilance, irritability, sleep disturbances, concentration problems |
What Causes PTSD?
PTSD arises from an intricate interplay of factors:
Type & Severity of Trauma: Single catastrophic events (assault, accidents), prolonged exposure (abuse, combat), or repeated secondary trauma (first responders)
Biological Predisposition: Genetic vulnerability, abnormal stress-hormone responses
Psychological & Social Factors: Prior mental health issues, lack of support, concurrent life stressors
How Is PTSD Diagnosed?
Dr. Sandeep Budhwar will conduct:
Clinical Interview: Detailed review of trauma history, symptoms, and functional impact
Standardized Assessments: Tools such as the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) or Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS)
DSM-5 Criteria: Confirmation that symptoms persist beyond one month and cause significant distress or impairment
Treatment Options
Evidence-based guidelines recommend a combination of psychological and pharmacological interventions:
1. Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy
First-line treatments include:
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE) to safely reprocess traumatic memories
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) incorporating psychoeducation, imaginal exposure, and cognitive restructuring
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) facilitating adaptive information processing
2. Medications
When psychotherapy alone is insufficient, the APA suggests:
SSRIs: Sertraline, paroxetine, fluoxetine
SNRIs: Venlafaxine
These medications can reduce core PTSD symptoms but require specialist monitoring.
3. Combined Approach
Combining trauma-focused therapy with medication often accelerates recovery and improves outcomes, particularly in comorbid cases involving depression or substance use.
Self-Help Strategies
Grounding Techniques: Focus on present sensations (5-4-3-2-1 exercise) to interrupt flashbacks
Relaxation Practices: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery
Structured Routine: Regular sleep, balanced meals, and scheduled activities to restore stability
Social Support: Sharing experiences with trusted friends, family, or peer support groups
When and How to Seek Help
If you experience persistent distress after trauma, consult Dr. Budhwar:
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PTSD is treatable. With timely, tailored care and active engagement in therapy and self-help, patients can overcome the enduring impact of trauma and reclaim their well-being.