What are the 6 Types of PTSD? Signs and Effective Treatment

Explore the Different Types of PTSD

Understanding PTSD involves acknowledging its varied forms and the need for tailored treatments. The six types of PTSD differ in symptom duration, requiring personalized approaches. Contrary to past beliefs associating PTSD mainly with the military, we now understand it affects anyone, especially after intense, life-threatening events.

Unlike acute stress disorder, severe PTSD involves lasting disruptions to daily life. Around 7.7 million Americans face or have faced PTSD, with an additional eight percent expected to develop it eventually. It’s crucial to grasp PTSD’s core definition as an anxiety disorder triggered by trauma. Symptoms can emerge immediately or years later, emphasizing the need for individualized treatments.

As medical professionals, we strive to deepen our understanding of PTSD and refine treatments for each patient’s unique needs. Recognizing the disorder’s diverse causes enables a more targeted and practical approach to alleviate the impact of traumatic experiences on mental well-being.

Get different types of PTSD counseling that work. Contact We Level Up Florida Treatment Center for compassionate support. Every call to our 24/7 hotline is free and confidential.

2. Acute Stress Disorder

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is recognized as a transient condition sharing specific characteristics with PTSD. However, its manifestation occurs within a condensed temporal framework, typically between 3 days and one month after a traumatic incident.

As per data from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the prevalence of ASD during this initial month spans from 6-33%, contingent upon the nature of the traumatic encounter. Specifically, in the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, the incidence ranges from 13-21%, while more severe events such as sexual assault or rape elevate the likelihood to approximately 20-50%. This nuanced understanding of prevalence rates is a valuable tool for individuals and clinicians, facilitating the anticipation of potential long-term distress and implementing timely interventions.

3. Dissociative PTSD

In 2013, a new type of PTSD called dissociative PTSD was recognized in the DSM-5. It stands out because it involves feeling disconnected (depersonalization or derealization) and emotionally distant.

People with this type of PTSD often also have other mental health issues, flashbacks where they feel detached, and trouble remembering certain events. Studies show that those with flashbacks are more likely to experience this disconnection.

Types of PTSD Flashbacks and Symptoms

• Visual flashbacks.
• Auditory flashbacks.
• Tactile flashbacks.
• Olfactory flashbacks.
• Emotional flashbacks.
• Dissociative flashbacks.
• Somatic flashbacks.
• Time-related flashbacks.
• Nightmare flashbacks.
• Intense physiological reactions.
• Intrusive memories.
• Unwanted thoughts or images.
• Flashback triggers.
• Hypervigilance.
• Feeling trapped or overwhelmed.
• Panic attacks.
• Avoidance behaviors.
• Memory gaps.
• Emotional numbness.
• Distorted perception of time.

4. Uncomplicated PTSD

People with uncomplicated PTSD have symptoms like reliving the trauma and avoiding reminders, similar to other types of PTSD. Still, the notable thing is it doesn’t come with other mental health issues like depression. It’s a common type of PTSD and responds well to treatment.

Symptoms of uncomplicated PTSD may include the following:

• Physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches).
• Intrusive memories.
• Nightmares.
• Flashbacks.
• Emotional distress.
• Avoidance of reminders.
• Hypervigilance.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Irritability.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Startled reactions.
• Feeling detached or estranged.
• Guilt or shame.
• Self-destructive behavior.
• Loss of interest.
• Memory problems.
• Relationship difficulties.
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
• Sense of foreshortened future.

5. Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD happens when someone goes through repeated, long-lasting traumas over months or years, unlike a one-time event like an attack or accident. It can happen in childhood or adulthood and affect relationships and behaviors. Physical symptoms like fatigue and chronic pain can also show up.

Treating Complex PTSD takes more time, and recovery happens more slowly. A personalized plan, led by a team of trauma specialists, is often needed for effective management.

6. Comorbid PTSD

Co-morbid PTSD is common when someone has PTSD along with other mental health issues. Treating this type involves addressing both the PTSD symptoms and the other mental health condition at the same time.

The most common disorders that occur along with PTSD are:

• Depression.
• Anxiety disorders.
• Substance use disorders.
• Bipolar disorder.
• Borderline personality disorder.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Eating disorders.
• Sleep disorders.
• Dissociative disorders.
• Psychotic disorders.
• Panic disorder.
• Social anxiety disorder.
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
• Specific phobias.
• Adjustment disorders.
• Cognitive disorders.
• Somatization disorders.
• Personality disorders.
• Trauma-related disorders.

Are there different types of PTSD treatment? Reach out for professional support and therapy options with a free call to our 24/7 mental health hotline.

What Type of Disorder is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after harrowing experiences or events. It brings signs and symptoms, such as distressing flashbacks, nightmares, and feeling on edge, showing a disruption in how we usually handle stress. Even though many people bounce back to regular life after tough times, if the said symptoms linger and make daily life hard, it could be clinical PTSD.

If you’re struggling with PTSD, don’t hesitate to reach out to the We Level Up Florida helpline for dedicated support and guidance. Each call is free and confidential.

Types of Therapy for PTSD and How to Choose One

Choosing the suitable PTSD therapy for you involves considering various factors, such as personal preferences, the nature of your trauma, and the therapeutic approaches that resonate with you.

It’s crucial to explore different options to find the one that aligns with your needs and comfort level. Also, establishing a solid rapport with a qualified therapist specializing in trauma can significantly impact the effectiveness of the therapy.

The right choice often involves a combination of evidence-based practices and a therapeutic relationship that fosters trust and understanding.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely utilized therapeutic modality for PTSD treatment. Rooted in cognitive restructuring, it focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors correlated to traumatic experiences. A pivotal component often involves exposure therapy, wherein individuals systematically confront and process traumatic memories, fostering cognitive and emotional adaptation.

CBT yields positive outcomes by facilitating the reframing of negative cognitions, mitigating avoidance behaviors, and proficiently managing symptomatic manifestations associated with PTSD. This therapeutic intervention is typically characterized by a concise duration, spanning 12-16 sessions.

Mindfulness-Based Therapies

Mindfulness-based therapies, exemplified by Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), center around the cultivation of present-moment awareness and the practice of non-judgmental acceptance. These techniques empower individuals to effectively manage distressing thoughts and emotions inherent in the aftermath of trauma.

This genre of therapy augments emotional regulation, diminishes anxiety, and fosters a non-judgmental stance toward thoughts and emotions. The duration of mindfulness-based interventions exhibits variability, often extending to eight or more sessions.

Acknowledging the individualized nature of therapeutic responses is crucial, and mental health professionals may advocate for a tailored combination of therapeutic approaches or adjustments to align with each patient’s distinctive needs.

Do you have questions about how to treat different types of PTSD through a comprehensive program? Call the We Level Up helpline 24/7.

We Level Up Florida PTSD Treatment Center

Take a step toward recovery today with our We Level Up Florida expert team. Our environment is designed to foster connection, understanding, and empathy. At We Level Up Florida, we stand out as a beacon of excellence in PTSD treatment. Tailoring individualized care plans allows us to address the diverse ways PTSD can manifest, recognizing the nuances of your experiences.

We stay current with cutting-edge treatments, ensuring you receive adequate care. Trust our commitment to enhancing positive outcomes as we integrate innovative approaches tailored to your needs, providing an impactful and personalized healing experience.

Holistic Wellness Integration and Science-Base Programs for Different Types of PTSD

At We Level Up Florida, we invite you to embrace a holistic approach to healing through our meticulously designed wellness programs. Understanding that healing goes beyond the mind, we’ve designed programs at We Level Up Florida that also consider your body and spirit.

C-PTSD (Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Informative Video