Ketamine for PTSD

PTSD services offered in Durango, CO

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder in which a person has difficulty recovering after witnessing or experiencing a terrifying event. Experiencing trauma can have devastating psychological effects that are sometimes tough to overcome.

If you or a loved one needs support after trauma, contact Elevated Medicine in Durango, Colorado. The team of skilled mental health providers understands how profoundly trauma can affect people’s lives and offers guidance, support, and other resources.

Call the office to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online for compassionate and effective trauma care.

PTSD Q&A

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental and behavioral disorder that can develop after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, such as sexual assault. It can also be long-term, like living through frequent abuse, severe illness, acute injury, or death.

Trauma doesn’t have to happen directly to you to cause distress, meaning you could witness a traumatic event. People can also develop PTSD after learning a traumatic event happened to a loved one. PTSD can affect people of all ages.

Sometimes, symptoms can cause significant distress and interfere with the person’s day-to-day functioning.

What are some symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD involves stress responses like:

Anxiety
Depressed mood
Feelings of shame or guilt
Hypervigilance
Negative thoughts and beliefs
Having flashbacks or nightmares

Avoiding situations, places, and activities related to the traumatic event are also signs.

What other conditions are related to PTSD?

Mental health conditions that closely relate to PTSD include:

Acute stress disorder

Acute stress disorder is a short-term mental health condition that may occur within the first month after experiencing a traumatic event. Symptoms lasting longer than four weeks might meet the criteria for PTSD.

Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD, also called CPTSD, is a mental health condition that may develop if a person experiences chronic or long-term trauma.

People with CPTSD typically have PTSD symptoms in addition to extensive issues with emotion regulation, relationships, and sense of self. Examples of chronic trauma include child physical or sexual abuse, domestic violence, and bullying.

Symptoms can be confused with those of ADHD. It’s essential to see a mental health specialist with experience in diagnosing.

What are some treatments for PTSD?

Personalized treatment plans for PTSD may include various forms of therapy, such as psychotherapy (talk therapy) — the primary treatment for PTSD, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and ketamine therapy.

Ketamine offers hope to those who have struggled to find relief through conventional treatments, providing a path toward healing and recovery from the debilitating effects of PTSD. It is one of the many treatments available at Elevated Medicine.

All forms of therapy occur with a trained and licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Elevated Medicine’s team provides patients with education, guidance, and support to help them heal, function better, and increase their well-being.

The team can also collaborate with other health care and mental health professionals. For compassionate and effective PTSD care, call the office to schedule a visit. Or request an appointment online today.