Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could occur due to many incidents, including auto accidents, violent encounters with criminals, and military service in combat zones. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, nearly 8 million adults, which equals about 3.6% of the U.S. population, have PTSD. Many people who are afflicted with this disorder don’t obtain treatment, but let’s take a closer look at how leaving it untreated might worsen it over time.
Angry and Aggressive Behavior
Untreated PTSD could lead to a lack of control when becoming angry and upset. According to HealthMatch, untreated PTSD typically becomes worse over the years and can make it difficult to work or even maintain meaningful relationships with others. Leaving it untreated can affect sleep, cause the afflicted to seek isolation, and make them very irritable and hypervigilant.
Increased Occurrences of Suicidal Thoughts
Whenever PTSD symptoms last more than a month, HealthMatch says suicidal ideation becomes more common. This is especially true if depression accompanies PTSD, which is fairly common. The dual effects can be especially difficult to overcome, especially when left untreated.
Self-Medication Causes Alcoholism and Addiction
Many of those who are afflicted don’t seek treatment, but they often engage in self-medication. Many drink alcoholic beverages to excess and are prone to alcoholism. Many also use illicit drugs that help them feel less anxiety and enable them to control their sleep. While the initial use might have some minor medicinal benefits, prolonged use often leads to substance abuse, dependency, criminal behavior, and health problems.
Co-Existing Conditions Complicate PTSD
The existence of additional conditions makes it especially difficult to overcome this disorder without obtaining treatment from qualified professionals. A combination of PTSD, anxiety, and other conditions makes it more difficult for the afflicted to recover. Fortunately, many treatments are available that can help, and neurofeedback for trauma is showing good promise.
Neurofeedback therapy is still developing but shows good promise for helping people with a variety of mental health issues and related conditions. This therapy measures people’s brainwaves and helps them to identify triggering mechanisms that affect their brain activity and related physical reactions. It helps patients to identify triggering mechanisms and how to control them better.
You can learn more about neurofeedback for trauma and how it might help you or someone that you know by calling to schedule an appointment. Get in touch with a member of our team today to learn all about the treatments we offer. We want to help you and your loved ones live healthier lives.