Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD is a condition caused by witnessing or being involved in a traumatic event, such as an assault or violent crime. As many as 6-7% of people will experience it in their lifetime, dealing with symptoms including flashbacks, anxiety, nightmares and intrusive thoughts. The effects often impact more than just the individual who goes through the trauma — even family members and loved ones of the person diagnosed can have PTSD symptoms.
The Yang Institute of Integrative Medicine is one of the top integrative wellness treatment centers for PTSD in Philadelphia. Learn more about the condition and how we treat it today.
Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Most PTSD symptoms fall under four categories. They can vary in severity — some people may experience all four categories, while others may feel one more intensely than others. Our integrative treatment for PTSD addresses these areas and helps our clients find coping strategies to move past them:
- Reliving the ordeal: Perhaps the most well-known symptom of PTSD is its tendency to cause flashbacks. People with PTSD may have nightmares or involuntary memories and feel like they are reliving the moment. They may experience more of these when they are triggered by external influences, like an anniversary of the event or seeing something that reminds them of it.
- Avoiding reminders: Since these “triggers” can make people with PTSD uncomfortable, many people try to avoid them altogether. This behavior may involve avoiding places, people, events and situations that are likely to bring up distressing memories. Many times, this leads to increased isolation, anxiety and depression.
- Negative thoughts and feelings: Someone with PTSD may feel helpless or guilty, as though they should have been able to prevent or avoid the traumatic event. They may foster distorted beliefs about themselves (ex. “I am bad”) or others (ex. “I can’t trust anyone”).
- Increased arousal: With PTSD, the body feels as though it’s in a constant state of danger, which can translate to increased heart rates and blood pressure, muscle tension and gastrointestinal issues. It may also present as being “jumpy” or easily startled, excessive emotionality, irritability, insomnia, trouble concentrating or trouble relating to others.
These symptoms can be acute or chronic and show up at any point following the traumatic event. Note that the traumatic event may not be dangerous — experiences like losing a loved one can also cause PTSD.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment at the Yang Institute
The Yang Institute uses a variety of therapies to treat PTSD, including cognitive behavioral therapy and acupuncture. Our integrative treatment for PTSD looks at the entire person and external influences that may not be considered elsewhere, allowing our practitioners to develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that addresses each client’s exact needs. We combine Western medicine practices like psychiatry and medication management with proven Eastern treatments to deliver an integrative care plan that considers every option.
Acupuncture treatment has the ability to reduce anxiety and emotional stress. In Chinese medicine, the concept of Qi represents the vital energy in the body which either flows freely or experiences blockages. In many cases, those with PTSD have residual emotional discomfort that can cause long-term mental health issues. Acupuncture helps to release blocked energy, or Qi, in the body, create a relaxed and stress-free sensation, and diminish that emotional discomfort.
Find PTSD Treatment in the Greater Philadelphia Area Today
From acupuncture for PTSD to traditional therapy and medical care, The Yang Institute is prepared to help you in any way we can. Here, you do not have to feel ashamed of your condition — we accept you where you are and work on a plan together to help you heal. PTSD and its associated conditions are treatable. Find the best solution for your situation today. Contact our practitioners to discuss options for easing your discomfort.