Chronic PTSD is a post-traumatic stress disorder whose effects persist for many months or years. It develops in people who have experienced a traumatic event and have not received support in working through the trauma. Symptoms include m.in. recurrent memories and mood changes, and treatment consists of psychotherapy, sometimes supported by pharmacotherapy.
Causes of chronic PTSD
The development of PTSD can be caused by personal experience of a highly stressful event or by witnessing it. The disorder often occurs in:
- people who have experienced hostilities,
- victims of kidnapping, torture and other forms of physical or psychological violence,
- victims of sexual violence,
- people who have lost a loved one as a result of murder or suicide,
- victims of natural disasters,
- victims of traffic accidents.
Such situations often result in the development of PTSD, and the lack of a quick response and professional help leads to the transition of post-traumatic stress disorder into a chronic form.
Symptoms of chronic post-traumatic stress disorder
People who struggle with chronic PTSD have:
- recurring memories of the trauma experienced in the form of the so-called flashbacks,
- excessive vigilance and a sense of danger,
- avoiding places and situations that are associated with the trauma experienced,
- fear of talking about an experienced event,
- sleep disorders, including insomnia and nightmares,
- eating disorders,
- isolation from the environment,
- psychosomatic symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems and constant feeling of fatigue,
- addictions, which are an attempt to cope with difficult emotions.
How to treat chronic PTSD?
In the treatment of chronic post-traumatic stress disorder, m.in is used. cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic therapy. Relaxation techniques are also helpful, as they help in the event of flashbacks or contact with a place that evokes memories of trauma. Pharmacotherapy is used when symptoms such as anxiety or sleep disorders make it difficult for the patient to function on a daily basis.