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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can severely disrupt an individual’s life, making it difficult to sleep, relax, concentrate, and function daily.

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While PTSD is often associated with soldiers, it is more common than many realize, affecting around 8 million adults in the U.S. each year. Various traumatic events can trigger the disorder.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment in VA, MD, and Washington, DC

african woman with PTSD at Providence Behavioral Health in Richmond, VA, Washington DC, and Baltimore, MD.

Understanding PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

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Most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping, but with time and good self-care, they usually get better. If the symptoms get worse, last for months or even years, and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, you may have PTSD.

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Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reduce symptoms and improve function.

​Understanding PTSD at Providence Behavioral Health in Richmond, VA, Washington DC, and Baltimore, MD.

Symptoms of PTSD

People with PTSD experience a distinct set of symptoms categorized into different groups:

  1. Re-Experiencing Symptoms:

    • Intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event

    • Nightmares

    • Flashbacks, where individuals feel as if they are reliving the trauma
       

  2. Avoidance Symptoms:

    • Avoiding reminders of the trauma, such as certain places or people

    • Refusing to talk about the event

    • Pushing thoughts of the event out of the mind, despite difficulties due to flashbacks and nightmares
       

  3. Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms:

    • Hyperarousal, marked by constant vigilance and reactivity

    • Feeling "on edge" and easily startled

    • Insomnia and trouble concentrating

    • Outbursts of anger
       

  4. Cognitive Symptoms:

    • Changes in thinking and feeling

    • Increased irritability, anxiety, and fear

    • Negative thoughts about oneself or the world, such as believing the world is dangerous or feeling responsible for the trauma

    • Behavioral changes, including withdrawing from loved ones or abusing substances

What Causes PTSD?

You can develop post-traumatic stress disorder when you go through, see or learn about an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation.

PTSD is probably caused by a complex mix of:

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  • Physical assault and other violent crimes

  • Rape or sexual assault

  • Physical or sexual abuse

  • Natural disasters

  • Accidents

  • Terrorist attacks/mass shootings

  • A difficult childbirth or miscarriage

  • The sudden/unexpected death of a loved one

  • Exposure to violence first-hand (e.g., through one’s job)

  • Military combat/exposure to war

​What Causes PTSD in Richmond, VA, Washington DC, and Baltimore, MD.

Acute stress disorder is very similar to PTSD but is shorter in duration. ASD symptoms develop immediately after a traumatic event and last three days to one month. If symptoms persist beyond a month, the individual has developed PTSD.

Acute Stress Disorder

Adjustment Disorders

Triggered by stressful life events such as divorce, job loss, illness, or losing a loved one. Some people can cope with these stressors on their own, while others need help from a mental health professional. Symptoms may include:

  • Frequent sadness or hopelessness

  • Crying often

  • Withdrawing from family and friends

  • Loss of interest in favorite activities

  • Lack of appetite

  • Insomnia

  • Neglecting responsibilities

  • Trouble focusing

  • Difficulty functioning in daily life

  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

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If you notice these signs after a major event, reach out to a mental health expert at Vitira Mental Health. While treatment for adjustment disorders is often short-term, ongoing issues like chronic illness or relationship troubles may require longer care.

Access Convenient Online Mental Health Therapy and Psychiatric Evaluations in VA, MD, and Washington, DC

At Vitira Mental Health, we provide compassionate mental health services through our Telehealth platform. Access therapy and support from the comfort of your home, with flexible scheduling and strict confidentiality.

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Our licensed therapists are dedicated to helping you with anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health concerns. Experience the convenience, privacy, and expert care of Telehealth with personalized treatment plans designed just for you.

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Start your journey to better mental health with Vitira Mental Health today.

Risk factors for PTSD

PTSD can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing it after a traumatic experience:

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  • Experiencing trauma that is very severe or prolonged

  • Previous trauma, especially during early life stages, such as childhood abuse

  • Occupations that frequently expose individuals to traumatic situations, like military or emergency response services

  • Existing mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression

  • Substance abuse, including heavy alcohol consumption or drug use

  • Lack of strong support networks, including family and friends

  • Family history of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression

​Risk factors for PTSD in Richmond, VA, Washington DC, and Baltimore, MD.
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