Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be challenging to struggle with. Over time, symptoms change and evolve, and many individuals do not get the help they need until years after PTSD symptoms start. Early intervention is the best defense against worsening mental health, and it equips individuals with the necessary tools to live happy, healthy, and productive lives while managing their mental health disorder. By recognizing the early warning signs of PTSD, individuals struggling can get the help they need sooner to facilitate successful healing.

Recognize The Importance Of Early Detection. If You Or Someone You Know Is Experiencing Any Common Warning Signs Of Ptsd, Don’t Hesitate To Seek Help.

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What is PTSD?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It is characterized by a range of distressing symptoms that persist long after the traumatic event has ended. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Common PTSD symptoms include intrusive thoughts or memories, intense flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of reminders associated with the trauma, heightened anxiety, emotional numbness, difficulty sleeping, and hyperarousal. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and seeking professional help is essential for diagnosis and effective treatment.

Stressed man covering his face showing physical symptoms of PTSD concept image for the Early warning signs of PTSD

Understanding the Causes of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Many individuals that have symptoms of PTSD live in denial that they are experiencing them. However, knowing that you went through an event that can cause PTSD can help you move towards accepting that you might be struggling more than you’re willing to admit.

PTSD is caused by exposure to traumatic events, which can be singular occurrences or ongoing situations. It is important to recognize that individuals may respond to such events in varying ways due to the distinct nature of trauma processing and may not develop PTSD.

Common risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing PTSD include:

  • Domestic abuse
  • Natural disasters
  • Physical or sexual assault
  • Military combat
  • Ongoing childhood abuse
  • Car crashes
  • Racism, sexism, and other types of discrimination

PTSD Signs and Symptoms

If you have gone through a traumatic event and have been struggling with negative symptoms ever since, it is wise to consider the possibility of PTSD. While you should always go to a mental health professional to be clinically diagnosed and get the help you need, noticing PTSD symptoms in yourself can prompt you to seek professional help in the first place.

Common signs of PTSD include, but are not limited to:

  • Intrusive thoughts/memories
  • Changes in severity of physical/emotional reactions
  • Traumatic event avoidance symptoms
  • Memory problems
  • A pessimistic outlook on life
  • Dissociation
  • Difficulty maintaining interpersonal relationships
An adult male discussing his PTSD symptoms with a therapist

Get Help and Take the First Steps Towards Healing

If you struggle with one or more things on this list after experiencing a traumatic event, reach out for help. Reach out to our mental health professionals today to access the support you need for healing and a successful recovery. Don’t wait. Get help today.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone at any time. While symptoms may take time to develop, early intervention is your best chance at a full recovery. For this reason, learning the PTSD signs can prompt those struggling to reach out for professional help. Alta Loma’s team at our Georgetown mental health treatment center in Texas understands that mental health can be challenging to navigate, but we provide men of all ages with comprehensive treatment plans to address addiction and underlying issues.

We know your journey is unique, so we tailor our treatment program to fit your needs. Start your journey to recovery today. Contact our expert team for support at 866-457-3843 or fill out our contact form.