When Should You Seek Medical Help for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can feel like a shadow, lingering long after the traumatic event has passed. It's not always easy to recognize when to step out of that shadow and seek help. At TMS Therapy Center in Houston, TX, we understand the intricacies of PTSD and the pivotal moments when intervention becomes necessary. Let's explore what PTSD is and the signs indicating it may be time to seek professional support. 

What is PTSD? 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or seeing a traumatic event. It involves intense, troubling thoughts and feelings about the trauma that persist long after the event. PTSD can happen to anyone, no matter their age, gender, or where they come from, and it can change how safe they feel and how they deal with stressful situations. Recognizing the signs of PTSD is vital for understanding its impact and seeking the proper treatment and support. 

What are common PTSD symptoms? 

PTSD symptoms deeply affect a person's life, showing up as mental and physical signs. These signs are divided into four main types, which help us understand how PTSD affects people. It's vital for those with PTSD and their loved ones to know these symptoms so they can get the right help:  

• Intrusive thoughts: This includes upsetting memories, feeling like the trauma is happening again, and bad dreams. 
• Avoidance: People might avoid places, activities, or thoughts that remind them of the trauma. 
• Negative mood changes: Feelings of hopelessness, having trouble with relationships, forgetting things, or not enjoying activities anymore. 
• Being on edge: Getting scared easily, constantly feeling like you need to watch out for danger, acting recklessly, having trouble sleeping, and getting angry quickly. 

Knowing these symptoms is the first step to healing, as it helps people recognize PTSD in themselves or others and get the help they need. 

How do I know if I need treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder? 

Therapy, particularly TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), has shown promising results in treating PTSD. This noninvasive treatment can help reduce symptoms by targeting specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. If you're experiencing PTSD symptoms and wondering if it's time to get treatment, consider these points as a guide:  

• Are your symptoms disrupting your life in significant ways? 
• Have you noticed a prolonged period of distress that has lasted longer than a month? 
• Is there a desire within you to find relief and healing? 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to seek help. At TMS Therapy Center in Houston, TX, we believe in a compassionate, personalized approach to treatment that addresses your unique needs. With our expertise in TMS therapy, hope is available for those struggling with PTSD. 

Get treatment for PTSD 

Taking that first step toward recovery may seem daunting, but it's a crucial part of the healing process. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of PTSD, don't hesitate to contact our team at TMS Therapy Center in Houston, TX. Let us be your partner in navigating the path to wellness.