How does a Psychiatrist Diagnose and Treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Our team of top psychiatrists often works with patients who have experienced traumatic events and are struggling with the after-effects. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can result from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. In this article, we will explain the diagnostic criteria for PTSD and we discuss how a psychiatrist can effectively evaluate and treat this condition.

DSM-5 Criteria for PTSD

The DSM-5, or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States and around the world. 

The DSM-5 criteria for PTSD are as follows:

1. Exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence.
2. Presence of one or more intrusion symptoms, such as recurrent, distressing memories or dreams related to the traumatic event.
3. Persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with the traumatic event, including avoidance of thoughts or feelings related to the event.
4. Negative alterations in mood or cognitions, such as feeling detached from others, negative beliefs about oneself, or inability to experience positive emotions.
5. Marked alterations in arousal and reactivity, such as hypervigilance, exaggerated startle response, or sleep disturbances.
6. Duration of symptoms for more than one month.
7. Significant impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.

Evaluating and Treating PTSD

If you are experiencing these symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek help from an experienced mental health professional. A psychiatrist has the education and training to properly evaluate your symptoms and determine whether you meet the criteria for PTSD.

Evaluation: During the evaluation process, a psychiatrist will likely ask you about your traumatic experience, as well as your current symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life. The evaluation should be thorough, to properly rule of other mental health conditions that can be co-occurring. They may also order blood work or other testing to rule out any medical conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Treatment: There are several effective treatments available for PTSD, including:

1. Medication: Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications can be helpful in managing symptoms of PTSD, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
2. Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy used to treat PTSD. CBT can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to your symptoms. Other types of therapy, such as exposure therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), can also be effective.
3. Support groups: Joining a support group for individuals with PTSD can provide a sense of community and understanding, and can help you feel less alone in your struggles.

PTSD is a serious condition that can have a profound impact on a person's life. If you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek help from an experienced and well trained mental health professional. A psychiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.

If you live in the state of California and are looking for help, we would be happy to speak with you. If you are interested in becoming a new patient, please schedule a time to speak with our practice manager (using the "book online" button above) or call our office today.

References:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml.