PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event involving actual or perceived threat to life or safety. Such events may include natural disasters, serious accidents, physical or sexual assault, domestic violence, medical trauma, or witnessing death or severe injury.

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PTSD is not a sign of weakness or poor coping. During trauma, the brain’s survival system activates to protect the individual. In some people, this system remains overly alert even after the danger has passed, leading to persistent distress and functional difficulties.

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At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, we view PTSD as a brain-based response to overwhelming stress, not a flaw in character.

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How Trauma Affects the Brain

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During traumatic experiences, the brain’s threat-detection system (the amygdala) becomes highly activated, preparing the body for fight, flight, or freeze. At the same time, areas responsible for reasoning, emotional regulation, and memory integration may function less effectively.

As a result, traumatic memories may remain fragmented and emotionally charged, causing the individual to feel as though the event is recurring in the present rather than remaining in the past.

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How PTSD Presents

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PTSD symptoms may appear soon after trauma or emerge months or even years later. They can vary in intensity and may fluctuate over time.

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Common Symptom Clusters

Re-experiencing

• Intrusive, distressing memories or images

• Nightmares related to the traumatic event

• Flashbacks or feeling as though the trauma is happening again

• Strong emotional or physical reactions to reminders

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Avoidance

• Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations about the trauma

• Avoiding people, places, or situations that trigger memories

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Negative Changes in Mood and Thinking

• Persistent fear, guilt, shame, or anger

• Emotional numbness or detachment from others

• Negative beliefs about oneself or the world

• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

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Hyperarousal and Reactivity

• Being constantly on edge or easily startled

• Irritability or anger outbursts

• Sleep disturbances

• Difficulty concentrating

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At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, we assess not only symptoms but also how PTSD affects self-esteem, relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

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Causes and Risk Factors

Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD. Factors that may increase vulnerability include:

• Severity and duration of the traumatic event

• Repeated or interpersonal trauma

• Lack of social support

• Prior mental health difficulties

• Ongoing stress after the trauma

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PTSD is not caused by personal weakness or failure to cope.

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Assessment and Diagnosis

A diagnosis of PTSD requires a comprehensive clinical evaluation, which may include:

• Detailed trauma and clinical history

• Assessment of current symptoms and functioning

• Screening for co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance use

• Use of standardised, evidence-based assessment tools

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At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, assessments are conducted by trained mental health professionals following established clinical guidelines.

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Treatment and Recovery

PTSD is treatable. With appropriate, trauma-informed care, many individuals experience significant improvement.

Treatment plans are individualised and may include:

• Trauma-focused psychotherapies (such as CBT-based approaches)

• Skills for emotional regulation and grounding

• Psychoeducation for individuals and families

• Medication, when clinically indicated and carefully monitored

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Early intervention can reduce long-term impact and support recovery.

At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, we provide a safe, structured, and compassionate therapeutic environment, working collaboratively to support healing and long-term resilience.

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Living With PTSD

Living with PTSD can be exhausting, but recovery is possible. Many individuals report that understanding their symptoms and receiving appropriate care helps them regain a sense of safety, control, and connection.

If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, seeking professional support can be an important first step toward recovery.