Trauma can dramatically alter a person’s mental state, both immediately after the trauma and for years to come. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that arises from unprocessed trauma after experiencing a particularly shocking, dangerous, or stressful event. People living with PTSD often report severe anxiety, nightmares, or uncontrollable flashbacks to a traumatic event, all of which can take a dramatic toll on a person’s mental health.
In these cases, a PTSD treatment program can effectively address the symptoms and causes of PTSD and set you on the path to wellness. However, with your mental health on the line, it is vital that you find a high-quality program. At Atlanta Center for Mental Health, we want to ensure you find the program that is right for you. Read below to learn about what to look for in a PTSD treatment program, and call 833.625.0458 to learn more about the treatment options offered at Atlanta Center for Mental Health.
Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment
By far, the most important factor to look out for when choosing treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder is evidence-based treatment practices. These treatments have been scientifically demonstrated to help treat PTSD and are the cornerstone of a comprehensive trauma treatment program. These treatments can include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Cognitive-behavioral therapy is often considered the most effective approach to treating PTSD. It is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and understanding the negative behavior patterns surrounding trauma and then changing them into healthier thoughts and behaviors.
- Prolonged Exposure – Prolonged exposure is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that gradually exposes clients to trauma-related memories or situations. Clients are allowed to face their fears in safe and controlled environments and over an extended period of time.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy – EMDR is a structured therapy that combines exposure therapy with a series of guided eye movements. The client briefly focuses on the traumatic memories while experiencing the stimulation of the eye movements, which has been associated with less vivid and traumatic memories of the event.
These are just a few of the various evidence-based therapies available to you. However, trauma treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It is important that your PTSD treatment program involves individualized care and that your treatment is centered around your unique needs.
Holistic PTSD Treatments
Holistic therapies can also be a useful part of PTSD treatment. PTSD does not just affect the mind; rather, the entire body can feel the draining effect of PTSD. As a result, some treatment modalities go beyond the mind to address the client’s general health and wellness. These approaches are known as holistic treatments since they emphasize treating the client as a whole person rather than simply treating their mind. Holistic treatments are not a substitute for evidence-based practices but, for many clients, holistic treatments are an important part of their recovery. A holistic program can include:
- Recreational therapy
- Music therapy
- Guided meditation
- Yoga
- Breathing exercises
Treating Dual Diagnosis Disorders
PTSD often occurs with other co-occurring disorders, especially drug or alcohol addiction. These cases are called dual diagnosis disorders. A high-quality PTSD treatment program will not only have the experience necessary to treat PTSD but will also understand the unique pressures introduced by a dual diagnosis. A PTSD treatment center should be prepared to offer addiction services and more traditional mental health services.
Call Atlanta Center for Mental Health to Learn More About Our PTSD Treatment Program
Addressing trauma is no easy battle, and healing from PTSD requires a team of dedicated and experienced clinical professionals. However, if you or a loved one is living with PTSD, recovery is within reach. The PTSD treatment programs offered at Atlanta Center for Mental Health are comprehensive, individualized, and hit all of the necessary characteristics for a high-quality treatment program. You can recover from trauma in a safe and supportive community of trained clinical professionals. Call 833.625.0458 or contact us online to learn more about your treatment options.
