Why You Shouldn’t Ignore PTSD Symptoms
- stevenflintlcsw
- 7 hours ago
- 5 min read
Life can throw some incredibly tough experiences our way. Surviving a traumatic event is proof of your strength, but sometimes, the emotional effects stick around long after the danger has passed.
Suppose you find yourself reliving distressing memories, feeling constantly on edge, or avoiding things that remind you of what happened. In that case, you might be dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.
Did you know that an estimated 3.6% of U.S. adults experience PTSD each year, with women being nearly three times more likely to be affected than men?
These aren't just feelings you have to live with; they are very real symptoms, and ignoring them can have serious consequences.
The great news is that recovery is absolutely possible. At San Antonio Authentic Counseling, we’ve seen so many people learn to manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives.
Understanding why symptoms matter is the first step toward healing. This blog aims to raise awareness and show you that with the proper support, you can move forward.
What Are the Signs of PTSD?
Recognizing the problem is the first and most crucial step. PTSD isn't just about flashbacks; it's a complex condition with a wide range of signs.
If you're trying to identify this condition, it's helpful to know that its symptoms usually fall into four main categories.
1. Intrusive Memories: This is one of the most well-known post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. It can include:
Unwanted, upsetting memories of the event.
Flashbacks, where you feel like you're reliving the trauma over and over.
Nightmares or distressing dreams about the event.
Intense emotional or physical reactions to things that remind you of what happened (triggers).
2. Avoidance: It’s natural to want to avoid thinking or feeling painful things. With PTSD, this avoidance becomes a central coping mechanism. You might find yourself:
Actively avoiding people, places, or activities that remind you of the trauma.
Refusing to talk or even think about the event.
Feeling emotionally numb or detached from others.
3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Trauma can change how you see yourself and the world. Some common signs in this category include:
Persistent negative beliefs like "I am bad," or "No one can be trusted."
Ongoing feelings of fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame.
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Feeling detached or estranged from friends and family.
Difficulty experiencing positive emotions like happiness or love.
4. Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Often called "arousal symptoms," this is about being in a constant state of high alert. This can look like:
Being easily startled or frightened.
Always being on guard for danger.
Trouble sleeping or concentrating.
Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior.
Engaging in self-destructive behavior, like drinking too much.
If these symptoms persist for more than a month and disrupt your daily life, it’s a strong sign you should seek help.
The Long-Term Effects of PTSD When Ignored
Trying to "tough it out" or hoping the symptoms will just disappear on their own can lead to significant long-term effects of PTSD. Your post-trauma condition and mental health are deeply connected, and unaddressed trauma can bring more issues.
When left untreated, PTSD can impact nearly every area of your life, from your relationships to your physical health.
It can increase the risk of developing depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use issues as people try to self-medicate to cope with the pain. It can also make it incredibly difficult to hold down a job, maintain friendships, or feel connected to your loved ones.
The constant stress on your body can even lead to chronic health problems like heart disease and digestive issues. This is why addressing PTSD symptoms is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of self-preservation.
How Therapy Helps You Heal
The most important message we want to share is one of hope. Healing is possible, and therapy is one of the most effective treatment options available.
A therapist specializing in trauma can provide a safe, non-judgmental space to process what you’ve been through.
One of the core goals of PTSD therapy is to help you reframe the negative thought patterns that keep you stuck. For instance, a thought like "It was my fault" can be gently challenged and reframed to "I did the best I could in an impossible situation."
Therapies like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are specifically designed to help your brain process traumatic memories so they no longer have the same emotional charge.
The journey of coping with PTSD is different for everyone, but the destination is a life where you are in control, not the trauma.
Stories of Hope and Healing
We’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many clients on their path to recovery. One client, a veteran, came to us struggling with severe nightmares and avoidance. He felt completely isolated from his family.
Through therapy, he learned to process his combat experiences and developed coping skills to manage his triggers. Today, he says, "I finally feel present with my kids again. The memories are still there, but they don't run my life anymore."
Another client survived a serious car accident and was terrified to drive. Through a combination of talk therapy and EMDR, she was able to work through the fear.
She recently sent us a photo from a road trip, with a note that said, "I never thought I'd be able to do this again. Thank you for giving me my freedom back." These stories show that with professional guidance, healing isn’t just a dream—it's a reality.
Holistic Approaches to Support Your Healing
While therapy is a foundation of recovery, a holistic approach that includes caring for your body can make a huge difference.
Your mind and body are connected, and supporting your physical health can build a more substantial support for mental wellness.
Nutrition: A balanced diet can help regulate your mood and energy levels. Foods rich in omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals can support brain health and reduce inflammation, which is often heightened by chronic stress.
Exercise: Physical activity is a powerful way to release pent-up stress and tension. Activities like walking, yoga, or running can boost endorphins (your body's natural mood-lifters) and help regulate your nervous system.
Mindfulness and Sleep: Practices like meditation can help you stay grounded in the present moment. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is also crucial, as rest is when your brain and body repair themselves.
Step Into Healing With Authentic Support
Choosing to face your PTSD symptoms is a courageous act—and you don't have to do it alone. At San Antonio Authentic Counseling, our unique approach combines evidence-based therapies, such as EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy, with personalized care.
We take time to understand your story, your strengths, and your goals, creating a healing plan that actually fits your life.
Don’t wait for “someday” to start feeling better—take the step now. Contact Us Today to learn more about our tailored PTSD treatment options.
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