Ways To Cope With The Long-Term Effects Of PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after experiencing a traumatic event like a natural disaster, war, or personal attack. It can affect anyone, regardless of age. People with PTSD often experience disturbing flashbacks, intense anxiety, and constant fear. For some, these symptoms may slowly improve over time. However, others might struggle with them for much longer.
Long-term effects of PTSD on physical and mental health
The long-term effects of PTSD can go beyond mental health, affecting physical well-being as well. This can keep the body in a constant state of hyperarousal, releasing stress hormones that may affect various bodily functions. This ongoing state of alertness may not only make it hard to relax, but it can also make it difficult to trust others, socialize, and enjoy life fully. However, PTSD can often be treated with a combination of therapy, medication, social support, and self-care practices.
How PTSD can develop as a chronic condition
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that often arises after an individual has experienced or witnessed a severe traumatic event. While many people may temporarily experience distress following trauma, some individuals develop PTSD, which can become a chronic condition over time.
Risk factors for developing long-term effects of PTSD
Several factors may contribute to the risk of developing PTSD long-term. These generally include the intensity of the trauma, ongoing stress after the event, and a lack of social support. Moreover, a person's history of anxiety and other mental health challenges, as well as a family history of mental health disorders, may increase the risk.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can lead to difficulty in stress response and memory recall
PTSD can alter stress hormones and memory functions, potentially leading to ongoing difficulties with the stress response and memory recall. These biological changes likely play a role in why PTSD can persist as a chronic condition, affecting a person's life for many years.
Acute stress disorder vs. chronic PTSD
Symptoms lasting three days to one month
PTSD symptoms persisting beyond a month
If symptoms persist beyond a month and continue to cause significant distress or impair one’s ability to carry out daily activities, the condition may evolve into chronic PTSD. Chronic PTSD usually involves enduring symptoms that can last for months or even years after the traumatic event. People with chronic PTSD may have severe flashbacks, avoid reminders of the trauma, and experience changes in their emotional reactions.
Long-term effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder often affects people differently, leading to various mental and physical health challenges. People with PTSD may be stressed and alert even when there's no danger. This can cause or worsen mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and substance misuse, potentially making it hard to do daily tasks or maintain relationships. Physically, high stress levels can increase the risk of chronic pain.
Anxiety
Anxiety can be a common challenge associated with PTSD. People with PTSD may experience intense, persistent, and sometimes irrational fear or worry. Common anxiety symptoms may include restlessness, a feeling of being "on edge," rapid heart rate, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms tend to arise as parts of the body's natural response to stress, but they can become overwhelming and interfere with daily activities when linked to PTSD.
Chronic pain
Chronic pain often develops as a persistent and distressing symptom for individuals with PTSD. Studies have shown that individuals with PTSD might experience chronic pain differently, as the pain can act as a continuous reminder of the traumatic event, possibly leading to reduced physical activity, although updated evidence may be needed.
Symptoms associated with chronic pain
- Continuous aches or sharp pains
- Increased sensitivity to pain
- Muscle tension or spasms
The link between chronic pain and PTSD is thought to stem from the heightened state of arousal in the nervous system, which can be common in PTSD and may amplify the perception of pain. In addition, individuals with PTSD may avoid activities due to fear or anxiety, which can, in turn, contribute to muscle weakness and other physical reactions.
Insomnia
Individuals with PTSD may experience insomnia, a condition marked by trouble falling or staying asleep. Persistent insomnia can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mood disturbances, which can increase the stress of PTSD.
Insomnia in PTSD patients might occur as an increased state of anxiety around bedtime or being easily awakened by noises and other disturbances. Continuous sleep deprivation may worsen PTSD symptoms, potentially making an individual more susceptible to flashbacks and other re-experiencing symptoms. Without adequate rest, a person’s body may have less opportunity to recover from stress, potentially leading to physical health problems, such as cardiovascular issues.
Depression
Depression can be a common long-term effect of PTSD. Individuals with PTSD may experience persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and a general sense of hopelessness. The connection between PTSD and depression tends to be well-documented; the two conditions frequently occur together, with the stress from the traumatic event often increasing the risk of developing depressive episodes. Complications arising from comorbid PTSD and depression can be severe and may include substance misuse and suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Interpersonal problems
Individuals with PTSD may experience various interpersonal problems that affect their ability to form and maintain close relationships. Symptoms like irritability, mistrust, and difficulty with affection can lead to challenges in personal interactions.
Over time, an individual may experience social withdrawal and isolation as they might find it hard to relate to others or become disconnected from their social circles. The stress from these interactions may result in increased anxiety or avoidance of social situations altogether.
Affected individuals may struggle with vulnerability and find it particularly hard to form or maintain intimate relationships. Relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners can break down, leading to further isolation.
Substance use disorders
Substance use disorders can be common among individuals coping with PTSD, who may often use substances like alcohol to self-medicate symptoms.
Symptoms of substance use disorder can involve a strong urge to use the substance, struggles to control its use, and continued use despite negative effects. Individuals with PTSD may face intense cravings, higher tolerance levels, and withdrawal symptoms when not using.
The relationship between PTSD and substance use disorders can form a cycle. Substance use can worsen PTSD symptoms, while ongoing PTSD symptoms might lead individuals to increase substance use as a temporary way to cope.
Ways to manage the long-term effects of PTSD
Managing the long-term effects of PTSD usually involves a combination of professional support and self-care strategies. A person may seek help from behavioral health services, which can provide a range of therapies. A mental health professional can offer a supportive space to work through traumatic experiences.
Therapy options
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which usually helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), which can be effective in helping individuals process traumatic memories
- Group therapy, which can provide support from others who have experienced similar traumas
Medications, under the guidance of a healthcare provider, can reduce symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, which are often comorbid with PTSD.
Self-care tips that individuals can incorporate into their daily routine
- Consistent sleep schedule: Ensuring regular sleep can reduce PTSD symptoms.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques:Activities like yoga or meditation may lessen stress.
- Productive lifestyle choices: Nutritious eating habits and regular exercise may improve overall well-being.
- Support networks: Maintaining relationships with friends and family can provide emotional support.
It can be vital for those managing PTSD to have access to resources and to understand that while the path to managing symptoms can be challenging, proven strategies may alleviate the long-term effects of the condition.
Seeking support for PTSD symptoms
After experiencing traumatic events, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A mental health professional can offer personalized support by helping individuals process their experiences and develop coping strategies.
Effectiveness of online therapy for PTSD and other mental health concerns
Online therapy can be seen as a valid alternative to in-person care, according to a 2022 study evaluating the effectiveness of online therapy for PTSD. Besides PTSD, online therapy is also effective for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. It can also offer accessibility for those who might face barriers to in-person therapy.
BetterHelp is an online platform that can connect individuals with licensed therapists. Users can schedule appointments that fit into their existing routines and choose between online chat, phone call, and video conference for each session, depending on their preferences and comfort levels.
Takeaway
Does PTSD get worse as you age?
The course of recovery from a traumatic experience typically varies considerably based on individual circumstances. Some people experience ongoing negative emotions, even if they have received treatment for their posttraumatic stress disorder, and may need additional support as they get older. PTSD symptoms might change based on how a person copes with them or what environmental factors play a role. For example, someone may have turned to substance abuse to address their negative emotions soon after they survived a traumatic experience, but as they age, they begin seeking treatment for their substance use. Reducing dependence on alcohol or drugs could potentially worsen PTSD symptoms, which is often a consideration when determining treatment plans for those with PTSD and comorbid substance use.
Does PTSD affect life expectancy?
Those experiencing PTSD may be at a higher risk of shortened life expectancy, mainly due to the adverse health effects and heightened risk of suicide. Evidence suggests that those who meet the diagnostic criteria for PTSD are more likely to develop cancer and heart disease, possibly due to increased stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. PTSD can induce most of the common symptoms of chronic stress, including high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and reduced health-promoting behaviors such as exercise and relaxation techniques.
What does untreated PTSD turn into?
Untreated PTSD often increases in severity as symptoms persist. While symptoms do sometimes resolve on their own, especially for those with support from friends and family members, many cases worsen over time. The adverse effects of PTSD can cause avoidance symptoms that may make it difficult for an affected person to confront and manage a traumatic memory. Their reactivity might also increase, leading to aggressive behavior and paranoia. Mood disorders, such as depression, are also common. Other mental health conditions, like anxiety disorders, might also appear alongside PTSD symptoms.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, PTSD symptoms treated by a healthcare professional typically lessen over time. Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement, desensitization, and restructuring (EMDR), and exposure therapy allow those diagnosed with PTSD to manage symptoms and likely prevent adverse effects. If left untreated, PTSD can often cause problems forming meaningful relationships and spending much of the time feeling emotionally numb. However, seeking professional help might prevent some of the long-term adverse impacts of PTSD.
Why is PTSD so hard to live with?
PTSD is a form of chronic stress that causes significant mental and physical health effects. PTSD is caused by the persistent activation of the body’s fight-or-flight system. The person might believe a threat to their well-being is imminent or inevitable. This can cause physical symptoms like sleep disturbances, elevated blood pressure, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Mental health problems also occur in PTSD. A person with PTSD might experience extreme fear associated with reminders of the traumatic event and go to great lengths to avoid environmental triggers associated with their trauma. They might also experience flashbacks and nightmares. Mood symptoms are also common, with many people finding it difficult to feel positive emotions in the wake of their traumatic experience. Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, might also appear or become more challenging to manage.
Navigating the adverse effects of PTSD can be extremely challenging, making it a difficult condition to live with for many. Those who have experienced a single traumatic event may find it easier to manage their symptoms than those who have experienced long-term traumatic exposure, such as someone who experienced combat exposure in war or experienced long-lasting childhood trauma. However, professional treatment might reduce or eliminate symptoms for many, regardless of their underlying cause.
What everyday struggles do people with PTSD face?
Those with PTSD might face a variety of different challenges, but the symptoms of the condition are typically grouped into four broad categories: intrusion, avoidance, reactivity, and mood. Intrusive symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, or other unwanted memories surrounding a traumatic event. Avoidance symptoms typically refer to an intense desire to avoid people, places, or objects associated with the trauma. Reactivity refers to an ongoing stimulation of the person’s threat response that might increase paranoia, irritability, and aggression. Finally, many people experience mood disturbances and may find it difficult to find positivity.
Do you ever grow out of PTSD?
The course of PTSD symptoms often varies considerably from person to person. The type of trauma a person experiences, its duration, and the resources they have for support all influence whether they can spontaneously recover from PTSD. Comorbid mental disorders or other conditions might also play a role. The diagnostic criteria for PTSD require that symptoms have been present for at least 30 days following a traumatic event, and it is likely that someone experiencing symptoms more than a month after experiencing trauma will need professional help to resolve their symptoms.
What worsens PTSD?
PTSD is often worsened by exposure to triggers related to the traumatic event. Most people with the condition experience avoidance symptoms, often expressed as an intense desire to avoid people, places, or objects associated with their traumatic exposure. Triggers vary drastically based on the type of trauma a person experiences. For example, someone whose PTSD is due to childhood abuse will likely have very different triggers from someone whose PTSD is due to sexual assault.
Co-occurring mental illness, physical health problems, or other disorders might also influence the severity of PTSD symptoms. Those who receive treatment from a professional, engage in a support group, or use other strategies to manage their symptoms might find that they worsen if those supports are removed or modified.
How do people with PTSD act in relationships?
While PTSD is associated with impairment in relationship functioning, those with the condition are not guaranteed to experience difficulties in their interpersonal relationships. PTSD treated by a professional can substantially reduce the emotional distress and social withdrawal that commonly occurs. Professionals might also be able to help treat other mental health problems, reducing their adverse impact on a relationship.
Social withdrawal and reactivity commonly impact relationships in those with PTSD. A person might pull away from friends, family, or romantic partners as they try to manage their symptoms. PTSD can also substantially increase paranoia and irritability, which might lead to increased aggression or other behaviors that alienate those around the person experiencing the condition.
What does a PTSD outburst look like?
A PTSD outburst likely refers to the reactivity symptoms of PTSD. A person experiencing an outburst often appears to be in significant distress. Rapid breathing, shouting, exaggerated movements, or aggressive behaviors may occur. A person who thinks they may be experiencing, or about to experience, a PTSD outburst should consider calling a crisis line, reaching out to their support network, or taking steps to ensure their safety.
What does untreated PTSD look like?
Untreated PTSD can lead to a variety of symptoms. Common ones include frightening dreams, flashbacks, irritability, paranoia, aggressive behavior, and social withdrawal. A person might also experience specific triggers that vary based on the cause of their PTSD. For example, someone who experienced physical abuse at the hands of an intimate partner likely has very different triggers from someone who experienced prolonged child abuse and neglect. No matter what a person’s triggers are, they typically go to great lengths to avoid them and may find it challenging to engage in activities of daily living. While untreated PTSD can have several adverse impacts, PTSD treated by a professional using techniques like psychotherapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can substantially reduce them.
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