Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a deeply challenging condition that can develop after someone has experienced or witnessed traumatic events like accidents, assault, or combat. The emotional and psychological effects of PTSD can last long after the event (more than 1 month), often making it difficult to navigate everyday life. It’s important to recognize the different types of PTSD, understand the symptoms, and know how it’s diagnosed to begin the healing process.
This page is here to provide you with helpful information about the following topics as it relates to PTSD:
Seeking professional help is necessary if PTSD symptoms interfere with daily life. You should consider seeing a psychiatrist if you or a loved one experiences:
If you live in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia (DMV) area, our professional clinicians at Washington Interventional Psychiatry (WIP) can provide a full evaluation to establish a personalized treatment plan to successfully manage your symptoms. Seeking support is an important step toward healing, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. PTSD is a treatable disorder.
Yes, PTSD can present differently depending on age. In adults, common symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and avoidance of situations that trigger memories of the trauma. They may also experience mood changes, difficulty sleeping, and heightened reactions to stress.
Children, on the other hand, may display PTSD symptoms through behavioral changes. They might reenact the traumatic event through play, develop new fears, or become unusually clingy with caregivers. Some children may struggle with learning, experience irritability, or show physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches. Recognizing these age-specific signs is crucial to ensuring proper diagnosis and support. According to the National Center for PTSD, “3% to 15% of girls and 1% to 6% of boys develop PTSD.”
At WIP, we offer general psychology services for both adults and children to address trauma-related concerns and provide the appropriate therapeutic interventions. Each treatment is personalized to the individual’s needs.
PTSD can develop from various traumatic experiences, including:
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing PTSD, such as a history of mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, lack of a strong social support network, or repeated exposure to trauma. Additionally, individuals who have experienced prior traumatic events may be more vulnerable to developing PTSD after subsequent trauma.
Research suggests that PTSD may occur as a survival mechanism, where the brain’s response to trauma triggers heightened states of alertness and fear. These changes in the brain’s chemistry can potentially lead to lasting emotional and psychological effects. Elevated levels of adrenaline following trauma can also contribute to persistent anxiety and stress responses.
Veterans, first responders, and others in high-risk professions are at an increased risk of developing PTSD due to repeated exposure to traumatic events.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 7% of Veterans experience PTSD at some point in their life; whereas, 6% of the general population goes through it.
Symptoms for veterans and first responders can include hypervigilance, difficulty adjusting to civilian life, heightened emotional responses, and distressing memories of combat or emergency situations.
With now over 31,119 veterans in the D.C. area, it’s crucial that WIP continues to establish an outpatient PTSD treatment center for veterans in the area. Contact us today for an evaluation in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia area.
It’s important to remember that every individual’s journey with PTSD is unique, and treatment plans should be tailored to meet personal needs and circumstances. There are various types of treatment plans for PTSD in the DMV area, and it’s about determining which one is best suited for your situation. Treatments include:
A reminder that while some treatments are FDA approved for PTSD, others are not. Be sure to speak with your physician regarding these guidelines.
For PTSD therapy options in Washington D.C., look no further than WIP. We make it easier by offering:
At WIP, we understand the challenges of living with PTSD and are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care. Our team of experienced psychiatrists and therapists works closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that foster healing and resilience. Our office is located at 4325 49th Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20016; however, depending on the service you select, you might be able to conduct your appointments virtually. Be sure to check out the exceptional reviews from individuals who have already experienced our compassionate care.
We offer a range of services, including therapy, medication management, ketamine therapy, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and general psychological support for both adults and children. We also specialize in PTSD Care for legal professionals and primary care physicians in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) areas.
Can PTSD go away on its own? PTSD symptoms may improve over time, but professional treatment is often necessary for full recovery.
Is PTSD only caused by military combat? No, PTSD can result from various traumatic experiences, including accidents, abuse, or loss of a loved one.
Are men or women more likely to experience PTSD? According to the National Library of Medicine, Women are two to three times more likely to experience PTSD; however, it’s still present in men as well. This is because women are more likely to experience abuse, such as sexual assault.
If you experience a traumatic event, will you develop PTSD? No, not everyone who goes through a traumatic event will develop PTSD. Chances of developing PTSD do increase when events are violent, occur repeatedly, and/or over a long period of time.
Where can you find PTSD therapy in the D.C. area? Our mental health clinic, WIP, is located in Washington, D.C., more specifically in Spring Valley. Our clinicians are highly experienced when it comes to treating patients with PTSD. Our D.C. location also treats residents of Maryland and Virginia.
Does PTSD go by other names? PTSD has also been called “Shell Shock” or “Combat Fatigue.”
PTSD is manageable with the right help, and at WIP, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you or a loved one is struggling and are located in the D.C., Maryland, or Virginia (DMV) area, reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healing.
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We invite you to experience how WIP approaches mental health care, where expertise meets compassion and where your journey to better mental health begins.
