PTSD Specialist

What is PTSD?

PTSD may occur after you’ve lived through trauma. Trauma can take many forms, including domestic abuse, active shooter situations, military combat, or personal assault. Not everyone experiences PTSD after such events, but it is disruptive and debilitating if you do. 

After trauma, expect to feel anxious or depressed. But with time, these feelings often fade as time goes by. With PTSD, symptoms don’t necessarily emerge right away and they don’t get better with time. In many cases they may become more severe and cause destructive behaviors. 

With professional treatment at Glacier Mental and Family Care Solutions, PTSD can become more manageable and you can restore your quality of life. 

What are the signs of PTSD?

PTSD can show up in four distinct ways. These include: 

Intrusive memories

PTSD can cause flashbacks and nightmares. These events may feel so realistic that it’s as if you’re re-experiencing the trauma. Flashbacks and nightmares can be triggered by feelings, the environment, or arise out of nowhere. 

Avoidance behavior

It’s normal to want to avoid places or people that trigger PTSD symptoms. But when you avoid them, you may become more and more isolated. Avoidance behaviors can eventually interfere with your day-to-day activities. 

Negative thoughts

PTSD can cause you to have many negative thoughts about yourself or others. PTSD can make you live with constant fear, horror, or guilt. These feelings can make you lose interest in previously enjoyed activities or become estranged from friends and family.

Heightened arousal

People with PTSD are often easily startled or prone to angry outbursts. You might also develop problems sleeping or concentrating. Many patients start to engage in reckless or self-destructive behaviors, including substance abuse. 

What is the treatment for PTSD?

Shannon develops a personalized PTSD treatment plan for each patient. This plan includes some talk therapy, behavior change, and, sometimes, medication. She helps you explore and resolve feelings associated with your trauma so you can create coping strategies that are healthy and functional. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with PTSD, call Glacier Mental and Family Health Solutions to set up an appointment and get started with treatment. You can also use the online booking tool to schedule your visit.