Trauma is commonly defined as any type of event that results in injury or pain (whether physical or emotional) that a person either experiences, witnesses, or is threatened by. Trauma does not always result in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (or PTSD). PTSD is a condition wherein a person develops repeated or prolonged fears, horrors, or feelings of helplessness or hopelessness.

Its symptoms may include (but are not limited to) nightmares, flashbacks, isolation, severe anxiety, hostility, or self-destructive actions. The symptoms need not immediately follow the trauma but may manifest years later and surface seemingly out of the blue.

Because we have a wonderful fight-or-flight response, we are able to act in self-preservation during hazardous situations. In a person suffering from PTSD, this response is set off when they are reminded of the trauma. Reactions can be relatively unnoticeable, such as an increased heart rate, or more extreme, such as violence toward others.

Some kinds of reactions to trauma are normal, such as nightmares or racing thoughts. For example, you may have been involved in an accident in which someone in the car with you was injured. This may make you afraid to drive or even leave the house. If you are still experiencing these symptoms months later, then you may be suffering from PTSD.

It is important to note, however, that PTSD can be treated, and the symptoms can be reduced or even eliminated. Several treatment options for PTSD exist, but there is no option that will be right for every person since different people respond to various treatments in different ways. Every client must work with their doctor and therapist to come up with a treatment plan that is right for them – one that will offer the greatest hope of success.

Christian counseling for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder at Simi Valley Christian Counseling offers a helpful and effective way of treating PTSD. Your therapist is a trained professional who will equip you with tools to overcome your symptoms.

If you or someone you love are struggling with PTSD, Simi Valley Christian Counseling is here to help. To learn more or to schedule an initial risk-free session, contact us by phone or visit our online counselor’s directory.