Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - "Invisible Wounds"
By Dr. Alejandro Alva
There's a common misconception about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – that it only affects military personnel. This is simply not true!
We all experience perceived or real threats in life. These experiences can cause PTSD, anxiety, stress, alcohol/chemical dependency, sexual abuse, porn addiction and more. During a traumatic event, the brain, along with the nervous system changes into "fight or flight mode." When you are suffering your brain can actually remain in either fight or flight mode - and you may have a very difficult time returning back to a normal state. These symptoms may make it hard (at best) or impossible to continue with everyday living.
In the United States there are approximately 10 million people who suffer from PTSD at some point in their lives (essentially 8%).
You may experience the following signs/symptoms of PTSD.
- Mental or physical discomfort
- Flashbacks - repeating the event
- Nightmares
- Impossible to remember the event
- Avoiding places, people, or objects which may trigger you
- Feeling tense, being easily startled, trouble sleeping
- Depression, worry, guilt, emotional numbness
- You no longer enjoy activities
As your preferred Psychiatrist in Orange County, our goal is to develop a positive coping strategy, support you medically, and help you to be able to resolve your feelings of fear.
We care about you, we are here to listen, and we are here to help you. If you are experiencing these feelings, please call us at 714-545-5550.
If you are in a life threatening situation or considering suicide please call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Hours: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish.
1-800-273-8255