What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that makes it very challenging for affected individuals to recover after witnessing or experiencing a traumatizing event. Traumatic events can include car accidents, sexual assault, abuse, war-related violence, natural disasters, and other experiences. Symptoms of trauma can also develop in people who are repeatedly exposed to images, video footage, or reported details about a traumatic event, even if they were not present when it occurred. We all deal with real or perceived threats to our safety in different ways, so similar events can manifest differently from person to person. If left untreated, traumatic experiences can have severe impacts on our mental health and daily lives.
PTSD can occur in varying degrees and manifests itself in any combination of the following pervasive symptoms:
- Hostility
- Hyper-vigilance
- Difficulty sleeping
- Mistrust of others
- Irritation and agitation
- Emotional detachment
- Loneliness and isolation
- Controlling fear or anxiety
- Flashbacks and nightmares
- Intrusive or racing thoughts
- Inability to enjoy normal activities
- Guilt and other negative emotions
- High risk or life-endangering behaviors
- Lack of interest in normal activities
Sometimes the impacts of traumatic events lessen on their own with time, but it is not uncommon for these symptoms to persist. In some cases, they rise to the level of severely affecting a person’s daily life and overall wellness. In these cases, mental health treatment can be extremely beneficial in reducing the impacts of a traumatic event. One cutting-edge treatment that may help someone recovering from PTSD is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and How Does it Help PTSD?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is not mere “brain zapping” or “shock therapy,” as many in the media have characterized it. TMS is a is completely safe and has successfully helped many people suffering from mood-related mental health concerns. During treatment, short electromagnetic pulses are emitted, targeting the prefrontal cortex and other brain structures responsible for regulating mood. These pulses improve brain function and, in many cases, and improve symptoms of depression and other mental health concerns. TMS is particularly successful for individuals for whom other forms of treatment, such as medication, have been unsuccessful.
TMS can improve the function of the brain and support you in better regulating your emotions, stress responses, anxiety, and social behavior, alleviating many of the painful and isolating symptoms of PTSD. Especially when combined with other therapeutic interventions like individual or group therapy, it can help you get well, stay well, and be well.
PTSD Treatment Center in Northern California
At Therapeutic Solutions, we have the tools and experience to help you overcome your challenges and reclaim your life and mental well-being. Our psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, social workers and other care providers are all motivated to help you get back on your feet and work with you to achieve long-term recovery and stability. If you are suffering from the effects of PTSD, don’t wait a minute longer to reach out and ask for help.
Take the first step today. Call (530) 899-3150 to talk to someone about your struggle, or contact us online to learn more about how we can help.
