Evidence-Based Therapeutic Treatment Options for PTSD
Cognitive Therapy Aims to challenge dysfunctional thoughts based on irrational or illogical assumptions. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Combines cognitive therapy with behavioral interventions such as exposure therapy, thought stopping, or breathing techniques. Exposure Therapy Aims to reduce anxiety and fear through confrontation of thoughts (imaginal exposure) or actual situations (in vivo exposure) related to the trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Combines general clinical practice with brief imaginal exposure and cognitive restructuring (rapid eye movement is induced during the imaginal exposure and cognitive restructuring phases).
Stress Inoculation Training Combines psycho-education with anxiety management techniques such as relaxation training, breathing retraining, and thought stopping. (Rauch & Cahill, 2003)
Warning Signs
Recurrent thoughts/memories of terrifying events
Feeling as though the event is happening again
Recurrent nightmares
Feeling detached/withdrawn
Unable to feel emotion
Jumpy, easily startled
Feeling irritable, having outbursts of anger
Avoiding activities that remind them of the traumatic or hurtful event
Inability to remember part or most of traumatic or hurtful event
Studies have identified that exposure to trauma causes the development of post traumatic stress disorder
The majority of researchers of this population focus on the significant levels of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
These victims have often experienced or witnessed, death or serious injury. Some have experienced a threat to their physical integrity which involved intense fear or helplessness .
Evidence based on pre-existing condition such as social supports, childhood experiences, personality variables, or in some cases medical disorders, can factor in the diagnosis of post traumatic stress disorder.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder due to exploitation, please call
