The importance of understanding reactions to mental trauma and the role of timely support in avoiding chronic pathologies
For a deeper understanding of how PTSD develops, it is important to grasp the dynamics of the body’s response to psychological trauma. This process follows a specific sequence, and without timely and proper assistance, it can lead to chronic pathological changes in mental health.
What is psychological trauma?
Psychological trauma is harm inflicted on a person’s mental health due to the intense impact of adverse environmental factors or acute emotionally traumatic events on the human psyche.
What constitutes a traumatic event?
A traumatic event is an incident where a person feels there is a clear danger to their life, physical or mental health, or the life and health of someone close to them. This feeling arises during the event (even if it later turns out that there was no actual danger) and leads to physiological, behavioral, and emotional reactions.
A traumatic event is characterized by:
- Suddenness;
- Loss of freedom of choice;
- Possible physical injuries;
- Fear, helplessness;
- Death threat or fact;
- Loss of control;
How does PTSD develop?
- First minutes – 72 hours: acute stress reaction (ASR);
- 72 hours – 1 month: acute stress disorder (ASD);
- More than 1 month: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);
- 6 months and more: chronic post-traumatic stress disorder.
How does acute stress reaction manifest?
Acute stress reaction (ASR) is the initial response of the body to trauma. It can unfold in two scenarios:
- Type A – rapid course: motor/speech agitation, aggression/anger, trembling, hysteria, incoherent speech (babbling).
- Type B – inhibited course: mental shock/stupor, panic fear, apathy, crying, murmuring. Loss of orientation is observed in both types of reactions.
All these reactions are normal responses to abnormal circumstances and may reduce over time independently or require crisis psychological support.
If a person did not receive assistance within the first 72 hours after a traumatic event, and the symptoms did not diminish spontaneously, acute stress disorder may develop. Later, without appropriate help, post-traumatic stress disorder may develop. The symptoms of these two disorders are identical, but they are classified separately based on the time criterion, indicating the level of adaptation or maladaptation of the person and determining the scope of psychotherapeutic and pharmacological assistance.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
- Intrusions – involuntary, intrusive memories of the traumatic event;
- Anxiety dreams or nightmares related to the traumatic event;
- Flashbacks – vivid, involuntary memories of the events during which the person feels as if the trauma is happening again here and now;
- Avoidance of discussions, mentions, feelings, thoughts, or activities related to the event;
- Loss of interest in usual activities;
- Feelings of alienation, detachment from others;
- Excessive arousal – insomnia, irritability, impulsivity, excessive alertness, difficulty concentrating;
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions;
- Feelings of unreality, detachment from the surrounding world, as if it has lost its color;
- Temporary memory impairments may occur.
PTSD is often accompanied by depression, anxiety disorders, and OCD. Individuals suffering from PTSD symptoms may turn to alcohol, substance abuse, self-harm, and suicidal tendencies.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself, do not delay: seek help!
How is PTSD treated?
The gold standard for treating PTSD is psychotherapy. With the help of a qualified specialist, you gradually restore your inner strength, seek new support, and have the opportunity to rebuild the part of yourself that suffered from traumatic events.
Depending on the overall condition of the body and psyche at the time of seeking help and during the therapeutic process, there may be a need for medication, and in such cases, a psychiatrist can provide pharmacological support on this journey.
Article by: Maliovana Olga – Psychiatrist, Psychologist”