Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Pennsylvania

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after an individual has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is important to understand the symptoms, causes, and treatments for PTSD in order to effectively manage this disorder and improve the overall well-being of those affected. PTSD affects millions of people in the United States, including many Pennsylvanians.

According to the National Center for PTSD, up to 60% of men and 50% of women experience at least one traumatic event in their lives, and around 7-8% of the population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. In Pennsylvania, an estimated 364,000 adults have PTSD.

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Percentage of Men & Women who have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives

Can PTSD be cured?

PTSD cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense, but it is treatable, and individuals with PTSD can recover and experience significant improvement in their symptoms. Treatment for PTSD typically involves a combination of therapy and medication, and the specific treatment or combination of treatments used will depend on the individual’s symptoms and needs.

The goal of treatment for PTSD is to help individuals learn to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. With treatment, individuals with PTSD can learn to identify and manage triggers, improve their coping skills, and reduce the intensity and frequency of their symptoms.

It’s important to note that the recovery process for PTSD can be different for each individual and may take time. It’s also common for individuals with PTSD to experience setbacks or relapses, and ongoing support from a mental health professional, family, and friends may be necessary to maintain progress.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From PTSD?

The recovery process from PTSD can vary widely for each individual and depends on various factors such as the severity of symptoms, the duration of trauma exposure, and the availability and effectiveness of treatment. Recovery is often a gradual process, and it can take time to see significant improvement in symptoms.

Some individuals with PTSD may start to experience improvement within a few months of starting treatment, while others may take longer. The length of time it takes to recover from PTSD can also depend on the specific treatment approach used. For example, some therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), may be shorter-term, while other therapies, such as psychodynamic therapy, may be longer-term.

It’s important to remember that recovery from PTSD is not always linear, and individuals may experience setbacks or relapses during the recovery process. However, with appropriate treatment, many individuals with PTSD are able to experience significant improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life. It’s also important to work closely with a mental health professional who has experience in treating PTSD to develop an individualized treatment plan and monitor progress over time.

What Medications Are Effective Against Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

There are several types of medications that can be used to treat PTSD. The specific medication prescribed will depend on the individual’s symptoms and medical history. Here are some examples of medications that are commonly used to treat PTSD:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are a type of antidepressant that can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression that often accompany PTSD. Examples of SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and paroxetine (Paxil).
Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a type of medication that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. They are typically prescribed on a short-term basis because they can be habit-forming. Examples of benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax) and clonazepam (Klonopin).
Prazosin: Prazosin is a medication originally used to treat high blood pressure, but it has also been found to be effective in reducing nightmares and improving sleep quality in individuals with PTSD.
Antipsychotics: Antipsychotics are a type of medication that can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and psychosis in individuals with PTSD. Examples of antipsychotics include quetiapine (Seroquel) and risperidone (Risperdal).

It’s important to note that medication alone is not typically enough to treat PTSD and is often used in combination with therapy. It’s also important to work closely with a mental health professional when taking medication for PTSD to monitor for any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

What Mental Health Therapies Help With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Pennsylvania?

There are several evidence-based therapies that are effective in treating PTSD. The specific therapy or combination of therapies used will depend on the individual’s symptoms, needs, and preferences. Here are some examples of therapies that are commonly used to treat PTSD:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to their PTSD symptoms. This type of therapy is often used to address specific symptoms such as avoidance and negative thinking.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): PE is a type of therapy that involves gradually exposing individuals to the traumatic event they experienced in a safe and controlled environment. The goal of this therapy is to help the individual learn to tolerate the memories and reactions associated with the trauma and reduce their fear and avoidance.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a type of therapy that uses eye movements to help process traumatic memories. The goal of this therapy is to help the individual reprocess the traumatic event so that it no longer triggers intense emotions and physical reactions.
Group Therapy: Group therapy involves meeting with a therapist and other individuals who have experienced trauma. This type of therapy can provide social support, validation, and encouragement to individuals as they work through their PTSD symptoms.
Family Therapy: Family therapy involves meeting with a therapist with family members or loved ones of the individual with PTSD. This type of therapy can help improve communication, relationships, and support between family members, which can be important in the recovery process.

It’s important to note that therapy for PTSD is typically a process that takes time and commitment. It’s also important to work with a licensed mental health professional who has experience treating PTSD and to discuss any concerns or questions about the therapy process.

How Much Does PTSD Therapy Cost & Does Insurance Cover It?

The cost of PTSD treatment can vary widely depending on the type of treatment and the location. For example, the cost of medication can vary based on the specific medication and the dosage, while the cost of therapy can vary based on the type of therapy and the frequency and duration of sessions.

In the United States, insurance coverage for PTSD treatment will depend on the individual’s insurance plan and coverage. Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and private insurance plans, provide coverage for mental health treatment, including treatment for PTSD. However, the specific coverage and out-of-pocket costs will depend on the individual’s plan and may include deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance. Here are some health insurance companies that cover PTSD:

Blue Cross Blue Shield Highmark Horizon
Cigna
Unitedhealthcare Optum
Beacon Health Options
Value Options
UMR
Geisinger
UPMC
Aetna
Compsych
and more!

It’s important to note that some mental health providers may not accept insurance, so it’s important to check with the provider or insurance company to determine the cost and coverage for PTSD treatment. Additionally, some mental health providers may offer a sliding fee scale or other forms of financial assistance for individuals who may not have insurance or have limited financial resources.

It’s also important to consider the long-term costs of untreated PTSD, including lost productivity, increased healthcare costs, and decreased quality of life. Seeking treatment for PTSD can help individuals improve their symptoms and overall well-being and may ultimately be a cost-effective option in the long run.

What are the 5 signs of PTSD?

The five signs of PTSD are:

Intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event
Avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event
Negative changes in mood or beliefs
Hyperarousal or increased anxiety
Flashbacks or nightmares related to the traumatic event

These symptoms can be persistent and severe, affecting an individual’s daily functioning and quality of life.

What to do when PTSD is triggered?

When PTSD is triggered, it is important to take immediate action to manage the symptoms. Some strategies that can be helpful include:

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for support
Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can worsen symptoms
Engage in activities that promote a sense of calm and relaxation, such as taking a warm bath or practicing yoga
Seek professional help from a mental health provider

What does PTSD do to a person?

PTSD can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. It can cause symptoms such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, and irritability. It can also interfere with daily functioning, such as work or social relationships. In severe cases, PTSD can lead to suicidal thoughts or self-harm. It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD.

How do I know if I have PTSD?

If you have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and are experiencing symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance, negative changes in mood or beliefs, hyperarousal, or flashbacks, it is possible that you may have PTSD. It is important to seek an accurate diagnosis from a mental health provider, who can provide appropriate treatment options.

Statistics on PTSD

According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 8 million adults in the United States are affected by PTSD each year. Veterans are also at an increased risk of developing PTSD, with an estimated 11-20% of veterans who have served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom experiencing PTSD. Women are also more likely than men to develop PTSD, with an estimated 10% of women experiencing PTSD at some point in their lives. Research has shown that evidence-based treatments for PTSD are effective. A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) were both highly effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD. Another study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that EMDR was effective in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving quality of life.

How do I get help for PTSD?

PTSD is a common mental health condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s well-being. It is important to understand the symptoms, causes, and treatments for this disorder in order to effectively manage its symptoms. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek professional help in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

If you or a loved one is suffering with PTSD in Pennsylvania don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 610-563-2752 or email: [email protected]

Sources

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2021). How Common Is PTSD? https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_veterans.asp
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2021). Treatment of PTSD. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand_tx/tx_overview.asp
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2019). Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Effective Treatments.
American Psychological Association. (2017). Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment. https://www.apa.org/topics/ptsd-treatment
National Center for PTSD. (2021). What Is PTSD? https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/ptsd_basics.asp
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355973
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Posttraumatic-Stress-Disorder
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. (2021). Mental Health Services.