PTSD Therapy & Common Myths About PTSD

While post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is commonly associated with military veterans, it’s important to recognize that anyone exposed to a terrifying or life-threatening event can develop this mental health condition. See if you could benefit from PTSD therapy near Fairfax Northern Virginia.

Trauma, whether from a car accident, sexual assault, or explosion, can manifest in various forms leading to PTSD. Diagnosis is established when symptoms like flashbacks, social anxiety, and nightmares persist for a month or more, significantly impacting daily life. The prevalence of trauma is substantial, with approximately 6 in 10 men and 5 in 10 women experiencing at least one traumatic event in the United States. Furthermore, an estimated 6 percent of the U.S. population will encounter PTSD at some point in their lives, affecting 12 million people annually.

Here are five common myths people believe about PTSD and why they aren’t true.

Military Veterans Are the Only Ones Who Get PTSD

While the misconception that PTSD only impacts military veterans exposed to war-related trauma is factually inaccurate, it’s understandable. This misperception persisted until 1980, five years after the conclusion of the Vietnam War when the American Psychiatric Association included PTSD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which was then in its third edition.

Contrary to common misconceptions, PTSD can impact individuals who have undergone experiences such as sexual assault, car accidents, terrorist attacks, domestic abuse, and natural disasters. It’s important to note that facing a life-threatening trauma isn’t a prerequisite for developing PTSD. For example, simply learning that a loved one has experienced trauma can also lead to the development of PTSD.

PTSD Is a Chronic Condition That Can’t Be Treated Effectively

The myth that PTSD is untreatable is completely false. Numerous effective treatments exist for individuals grappling with the aftermath of a traumatic event, as outlined by the National Institute for Mental Health and with the PTSD therapy near Fairfax Northern Virginia that we offer.

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Engaging in discussions with a mental health professional, either one-on-one with a psychiatrist or psychologist or in a group setting, is a key component of psychotherapy. Techniques such as relaxation and anger-management are employed to address reactions to trauma. Therapists may also offer guidance on sleep, diet, and fitness to instigate positive changes in daily habits.

Exposure Therapy

This psychotherapeutic approach involves confronting and managing fears. Therapists may expose individuals to triggers associated with their trauma, utilizing mental imagery or visits to the site of a traumatic event.

Cognitive Processing

Aimed at helping individuals make sense of distressing memories linked to their trauma, cognitive processing is another form of psychotherapy. Therapists assist in reexamining feelings of guilt or shame associated with the trauma.

Medications

Antidepressants, commonly prescribed to alleviate feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety, are a prevalent medication option for PTSD. Often prescribed in conjunction with psychotherapy sessions, individuals are advised to consult their physician or healthcare provider to determine the most suitable medications and prescriptions for managing symptoms.

Everyone Who Has PTSD Is Prone to Violent Behavior

Although linked to PTSD, violence is not a prevalent symptom of this mental illness. Instead, individuals impacted by PTSD typically display avoidance symptoms, causing them to withdraw socially and become apprehensive about encountering anything that might trigger memories of their traumas.

If Trauma Happened Long Ago, You’re Automatically ‘Over It’

PTSD may be triggered years following a traumatic experience. While symptoms typically manifest around three months after the traumatic event, it’s possible for the condition to develop years or even decades later. This is particularly evident in cases of trauma endured during childhood. Someone may undergo a childhood trauma without processing it until much later. It could be an unspoken experience, and later in adulthood, an event may trigger that memory, exacerbating PTSD symptoms. This is frequently observed in individuals who have faced childhood physical or sexual abuse, where suppressed memories resurface when they become adults.

Coping With PTSD Is a Sign of Weakness

PTSD is a significant and enduring mental health condition that should not be taken lightly. Considering that individuals grappling with PTSD often have a history of trauma from sexual assaults or severe life-threatening incidents, overcoming the enduring effects of such experiences can be a lengthy process spanning years and even decades. Recovering from any form of trauma is a gradual process that takes time. It is by no means a sign of weakness or something for which anyone should feel guilty.

PTSD Therapy near Fairfax Northern Virginia

If you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, we are here to help. Call (703) 732-6426 today to schedule an initial appointment or a free 15-minute phone consultation about PTSD therapy near Fairfax Northern Virginia. We also offer discernment counseling, family therapy, individual therapy, couples counseling, parent coordination and coparenting counseling. We look forward to hearing from you!