Could It Be PTSD? When to Seek Help
Nov 24, 2016
Most people associate PTSD or post traumatic stress disorder with veterans who have experienced the horrors of war, but the truth is PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or even witnessed a terrifying or life threatening events. While this includes combat, it also includes natural disasters, car accidents, sexual assault, and many others. After a traumatic incident, it is normal to feel upset, have trouble sleeping and feel on edge for a period of time, but if it has been a few months and you are still experiencing issues, it's time to seek professional help from an experienced therapist.
Through cognitive therapy, an experienced counselor helps you to understand and in time change the way you think about your traumatic experience and its aftermath. Through multiple techniques, you begin to identify thoughts about the trauma that cause stress and increase your symptoms. With the help of your therapist, you will learn to replace those thoughts with less distressing thoughts. Furthermore, you will learn a number of coping strategies to deal with lingering feelings of anger, guilt, and fear.
After a traumatic event, it is normal to have a difficult time dealing with everyday events. However, if you cannot begin to return to your normal life within a few months and are struggling with feelings of guilt and blame, seeking counseling from a licensed therapist will help you to overcome your PTSD and return to the healthy and happy life you deserve. Contact us today for assistance with PTSD therapy in the Fresno, Kingsburg, or Visalia area.