Trauma Treatment
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a predictable and treatable set of reactions to a traumatic event.
Do you experience flashbacks or nightmares about something that has happened to you? Do you numb yourself with alcohol, drugs, TV or phone scrolling? Do you ever feel as if you are stuck in the past?
Many people minimize their traumatic experiences or believe that trauma must be “headline-worthy” in order to count, but the fact is that in addition to car accidents, sudden losses, and combat, people can experience traumatic reactions to divorce, job loss, or moving. It is not the event that matters as much as the body and brain’s response to it.
Real change is possible.
What does PTSD feel like?
People with PTSD often struggle to stay in the present, reacting to current situations as if they were still in past traumatic events. This can lead to outbursts of anger over small issues or feeling unsafe in non-threatening environments like crowds or open spaces. Trauma triggers the body’s defense systems—fight, flight, or freeze—but in PTSD, these systems malfunction, causing fear or anger even when there is no real threat. This can result in impulsive actions, irrational anger, or pushing others away.
At the same time, many with PTSD try to numb their trauma-related emotions, turning to behaviors like substance abuse, eating disorders, or excessive use of distractions like shopping, TV, or work. These actions help avoid the painful feelings associated with trauma, but they also distance the person from truly processing and healing from the experience.
Healing from PTSD
The good news is that PTSD is treatable. Monarch clinicians are skilled at using a blend of exposure, relational therapy, and supportive understanding to help you to achieve calm, peace and empowerment. Although there is often still specific work that needs to be done in these areas, addictions such as eating disorders and drug and alcohol abuse lose some of their entrenchment with successful trauma treatment.
Relationships begin to feel less like a burden and more like a vitalizing connection and begin to be characterized more by steadiness and reliability. Sleep and self-care often improve, and people begin feeling less overwhelmed by everyday life. As symptoms remit, they are replaced by an ability to live in the present moment, feeling connected and fully alive.
Ready to start your healing journey?
Schedule an appointment with Monarch Wellness and Psychotherapy today. We’re here to support you every step of the way toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.