PTSD

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying, shocking, or dangerous event. While it is completely natural to feel afraid or upset during and after a trauma, people with PTSD continue to experience intense stress and anxiety long after the danger has passed.

Without proper treatment, PTSD can affect your physical health, self-confidence, decision-making, and overall quality of life.

The ongoing distress of trauma can make it difficult to maintain important relationships, perform well at work, or enjoy activities you once loved. A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation helps your provider understand the specific nature of your symptoms and how they impact your life, allowing them to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your recovery goals.

What are the PTSD symptoms?

The symptoms of PTSD generally develop within three months of the traumatic event, though they can sometimes surface years later. To be diagnosed, these symptoms must persist for more than a month and be severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning.

Notable signs include:

• Intrusive memories or vivid flashbacks of the event
• Distressing nightmares or sleep disturbances
• Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to trauma reminders
• Actively avoiding places, activities, or people that remind you of the trauma
• Avoiding thinking or talking about the event
• Negative changes in thinking and mood
• Feeling detached, numb, or isolated from loved ones
• Loss of interest in your favorite activities
• Persistent feelings of hopelessness, fear, or guilt
• Being easily startled or constantly on guard (hypervigilance)
• Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering key aspects of the trauma

Because PTSD symptoms frequently overlap or co-occur with conditions like depression, substance use, or chronic anxiety, an accurate diagnosis is a necessary first step toward effective treatment.

How is PTSD treated?

Your provider at Oasis Health and Wellness works closely with you to create a treatment plan to reduce your symptoms, improve your ability to function, and support your emotional wellness.

Your treatment may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• Medication management (such as targeted anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications to manage symptom severity)
• Ongoing monitoring and treatment adjustments
• Education about trauma, triggers, and healthy coping mechanisms
• Coordination with other healthcare providers
• Convenient telehealth appointments

Managing PTSD is an ongoing journey of healing, and regular follow-up care allows your provider to monitor your progress and adjust your care as your needs evolve. 

If persistent trauma responses are affecting your daily well-being, the Oasis Health and Wellness team is ready to step in and help. Schedule an appointment today or use the online scheduling option.