Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is triggered by being involved in traumatic or terrifying events, like car accidents, explosions, house fires, domestic abuse, and military combat.
People experience traumatic events all the time. With counseling and self-care, they’re often able to cope and feel better. If you experience difficulty adjusting or notice the symptoms of PTSD affecting your ability to sleep, focus, or spend time with others, seek professional help.
Common symptoms of PTSD include:
If you have PTSD, you might also experience physical symptoms like trouble concentrating, irritability, and being easily frightened.
It’s essential to visit Dr. Weng if you’re involved in a traumatic event and afterward experience intense thoughts or feelings about the event for a month or longer. That’s especially true if your symptoms prevent you from going to work, participating in activities you enjoy, or spending time with family and friends.
To diagnose PTSD, Dr. Weng and his team complete thorough physical and neurological exams. He then conducts a psychological evaluation and asks you about your symptoms, including how severe they are and when they started.
Dr. Weng and his team also compare your symptoms to the criteria in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The DSM-5 is the American Psychiatric Association’s go-to source on the names, symptoms, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders. If your symptoms align with the DSM-5, you likely have PTSD.
Treating PTSD depends on how severe your symptoms are and their effect on your daily life. Usually, Along side your mental health provider, Dr. Weng will recommend conservative treatments and healthy lifestyle changes, including:
You might also benefit from prescription medications like antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs.
Ultimately, the goal is to help you feel better so that you can return to normal function.
Make an appointment with Dr. Weng by calling the office or booking online to learn more about available treatments for PTSD.