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PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder)  

 

PTSD can effect anyone at any age after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic or disturbing event that alters one's sense of safety or self. 

 

What is it?

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PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a singular event or series of events. Some examples of traumatic or disturbing events that may contribute to the onset of PTSD include but are not limited to the following: childhood abuse, community violence, relational abuse, sexual assault or harassment, perpetration of assault, natural disasters, life-threatening accidents. Thoughts, feelings, or other related symptoms triggered from the event(s) may interfere with daily tasks.

 

You do not need to wait this long to receive support. You can work with a therapist prior to a formal diagnosis has been given and the associated time requirement. Seeking support earlier may help prevent the development of PTSD or minimize intensity of symptoms.

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Symptoms:

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  • Intense and disturbing thoughts related to traumatic experience long after it has ended

  • Reliving the event in flashbacks or nightmares

  • Sadness, fear or anger

  • Detached from people

  • Numb or dissociation

  • Sensitive to specific stimuli (loud noises, touch, or smell)

  • Hypervigilance

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Heightened startle reaction

  • Exaggerated self-blame for causing the traumatic event to occur.

  • Avoidance of trauma- related stimuli – either thoughts and feelings or reminders about the event

  • And others

 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms especially if they are lasting longer than 1 month, create distress and impair daily functioning, please reach out to get connected with a trauma-informed therapist or talk with your primary care physician.

There is hope for healing!

 

You do not have to process your trauma, PTSD, and other trauma-related symptoms alone. We are here to walk with you in your healing journey.

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What NewPath Offers:

 

We have several therapeutic treatment options available here.

 

As you wait for your appointment, some things that may help:

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  • Art- Coloring, drawing, crafting and other forms of art can help calm the mind and relax the body through repetitive movements. Art can also be a tool to process and express emotions that cannot be described with words.

  • Exercise- movement can help release endorphins, release excesses energy and utilize repetitive motion to calm the mind

  • Mindfulness activities- activities that involve all senses helps bring attention and awareness to the present moment and current task

  • Music- listening to and or creating music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure and pain while improving mood and alertness

  • Write about anything - studies show that taking the time to put our thoughts down on paper can improve emotional regulation and even boost your immune system 

  • Connect with people- getting together with friends or family that are supportive, or just simply texting can help feel more connect to the moment. Participating in events with a faith community can also be a good source of support.

 

Please be kind to yourself. These activities are powerful but can take time to notice their affects. You know yourself best and these suggestions may not be what you need at this time. Please talk to your primary care physician and/or therapist about other options to consider if these are not a good fit. Other options are available to support you in your healing journey- such as medication, service dog, massage, or other therapeutic methods.

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Get Help

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If you are feeling lost in your trauma and PTSD symptoms and are interested in seeing a therapist, please reach out to our Client Services Coordinator to talk about getting started. 

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For more information please call 763-566-0088 and speak to our Client Services Coordinator or stop by the NewPath Mental Health Services office at 8401 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 340, Golden Valley, MN 55426 to find out about services you are interested in.

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