Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Common symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms are typically grouped into four categories that reflect different aspects of how trauma affects functioning.

Intrusive re-experiencing symptoms include:

• Recurrent, involuntary, and distressing memories of the traumatic event
• Distressing dreams or nightmares related to the trauma
• Flashbacks in which the person feels or acts as if the traumatic event is recurring
• Intense psychological distress when exposed to reminders of the trauma
• Physical reactions (such as increased heart rate or sweating) to trauma reminders

Avoidance symptoms include:

• Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations about the traumatic event
• Avoiding people, places, activities, objects, or situations that trigger memories of the trauma
• Inability to recall important aspects of the traumatic event
• Significant restriction of daily activities to prevent encountering trauma reminders

Negative changes in thoughts and mood include:

• Persistent negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world (such as “I am bad,” “No one can be trusted,” “The world is completely dangerous”)
• Distorted blame of self or others for causing the trauma or its consequences
• Persistent negative emotional state (fear, horror, anger, guilt, shame)
• Diminished interest or participation in activities that were previously enjoyable
• Feeling detached or estranged from others
• Persistent inability to experience positive emotions such as happiness, satisfaction, or love

Hyperarousal and reactivity symptoms include:

• Irritable behavior, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior with little or no provocation
• Reckless or self-destructive behavior
• Hypervigilance (constantly scanning the environment for threats)
• Exaggerated startle response
• Problems with concentration
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep

In children, PTSD symptoms may manifest differently, including regression in developmental milestones, separation anxiety, reenactment of trauma through play, or behavioral problems.

For more information about PTSD, visit the National Center for PTSD.

How PTSD affects daily life

The impact of PTSD extends across all areas of functioning, often creating significant challenges in multiple domains of life.

In work and academic settings, PTSD can impair concentration, memory, and decision-making. Hypervigilance and sleep disturbances can lead to exhaustion and decreased productivity. Avoidance behaviors may limit career opportunities or cause individuals to miss work or school. Difficulty trusting others or managing anger can create workplace conflicts or academic challenges.

In relationships and social functioning, PTSD often causes significant strain. Emotional numbness and detachment can make it difficult to connect with loved ones. Irritability and anger outbursts can create conflict and distance. Avoidance of social situations or activities can lead to isolation. Partners and family members may feel confused, hurt, or helpless, unsure how to provide support without triggering distress.

In parenting and family life, PTSD can affect the ability to be emotionally present, manage stress, or engage in family activities. Hypervigilance may manifest as overprotectiveness, while avoidance may lead to withdrawal from family responsibilities. Children may feel confused or responsible for the parent’s distress.

In physical health, chronic hyperarousal and stress associated with PTSD can contribute to cardiovascular problems, chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, weakened immune function, and other health concerns. Sleep disturbances can further compromise physical health and recovery.

In emotional and mental health, PTSD frequently co-occurs with depression, substance use disorders, and other anxiety disorders. The persistent negative emotions, sense of disconnection, and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities can significantly impair quality of life and increase risk for self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

When to seek professional help for PTSD

If you have experienced a traumatic event and are struggling with persistent symptoms that interfere with your daily life, it is important to seek professional support. Research shows that PTSD responds well to trauma-focused treatment, and early intervention can prevent symptoms from becoming chronic.

Consider seeking help if you:

• Continue to experience distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks weeks or months after a traumatic event
• Avoid people, places, or activities that remind you of the trauma
• Experience persistent negative thoughts about yourself or the world
• Feel emotionally numb, detached, or unable to experience positive emotions
• Notice increased irritability, anger, or difficulty controlling your reactions
• Have trouble sleeping, concentrating, or feeling safe
• Engage in reckless or self-destructive behaviors
• Experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide

A diagnostic evaluation can help clarify whether your symptoms meet criteria for PTSD and guide appropriate treatment planning.

If you are in crisis or experiencing thoughts of self-harm, please call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room.

How Renewed Freedom Center treats PTSD

At Renewed Freedom Center, treatment for PTSD is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with trauma-focused approaches that have strong research support. Treatment focuses on processing traumatic memories in a safe, controlled way, challenging unhelpful beliefs that developed from the trauma, and reducing avoidance behaviors that maintain symptoms.

Treatment is personalized based on the nature of the trauma, symptom severity, co-occurring conditions, and individual goals. For some, weekly CBT sessions provide appropriate support. For others experiencing severe PTSD symptoms or significant life disruption, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers a more structured approach with multiple sessions per week. Group therapy can also be beneficial, providing skills training, peer support, and reduced isolation.

Our approach includes:

• Trauma-focused CBT to process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact
• Cognitive restructuring to address distorted beliefs about safety, trust, control, and self-blame
• Exposure strategies to gradually reduce avoidance of trauma reminders in safe, manageable ways
• Anxiety management skills including grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and emotional regulation
• Mindfulness and present-moment awareness to reduce hypervigilance and increase feelings of safety
• Relapse prevention planning to maintain progress and navigate triggers or anniversaries

For individuals whose PTSD co-occurs with OCD, panic disorder, or other anxiety disorders, integrated treatment addresses all conditions simultaneously. When appropriate, family involvement can help loved ones understand PTSD and provide effective support. Learn more about family-focused treatment on our about page.

Important note: Treatment for PTSD may require coordination with other healthcare providers, particularly if there are safety concerns, substance use issues, or complex trauma histories.