PTSD

If you’re struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you need a mental health care provider who accepts, respects, and understands your unique needs. At Oasis Healing Arts, advanced practice psychiatric nurse Linda Hilliker, MS, CNS, RXN, provides compassionate care in a safe and comfortable space. You can explore treatment options in the Broomfield, Colorado, office or through telehealth, so call the office or book your appointment using online scheduling now.

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that arises in some people who experience trauma. The disorder can start immediately after a traumatic experience or days, months, or years after the event. 

Trauma may occur due to many different types of circumstances. A few of the most common are:

• Military combat
• Natural disasters
• Life-threatening situations
• Physical assault
• Sexual abuse or violence
• Terrorist acts
• Accidents
• Robbery
• Sudden loss of a loved one
• Chronic neglect or mistreatment during childhood

People with PTSD experience symptoms when reminded of their traumatic experience. 

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms may include:

Intrusive memories or Nightmares

Intrusive memories of the event in your thoughts or dreams. These memories can be extremely stressful, sometimes making you feel you’re re-experiencing the trauma. 

Thought and mood symptoms

Feelings of hopelessness, numbness, detachment, and negativity are frequent experiences in PTSD.. This can lead to difficulty maintaining relationships, keeping up your usual routines, functioning normally, and enjoying your life. 

Arousal symptoms

Arousal symptoms are physical and emotional reactions to danger or perceived danger. You may always often feel on edge, become easily startled, have angry outbursts, and / or have difficulty sleeping or concentrating.

Avoidance

Avoidance involves trying to prevent thoughts of your trauma. You might avoid places, people, and even routine activities to avoid having intrusive memories, negative feelings, or arousal symptoms triggered.

PTSD symptoms often vary over time. When you’re under stress, they’re likely to increase. However, sometimes one may be triggered without knowing what prompted it.

What causes PTSD?

Two people who go through the same traumatic event may experience it very differently, with one developing PTSD and the other experiencing no long-term effects. 

Experts still aren’t sure why some people develop PTSD and others don’t. A combination of factors likely contributes, including brain chemistry, inherited characteristics, and life experiences. 

How is PTSD treated?

At Oasis Healing Arts, Linda creates a comfortable, accepting, and compassionate space where you can explore a plan to relieve symptoms hand-in-hand. PTSD symptoms often respond to therapy, medication, and self care activities. 

Linda is a highly experienced medication management specialist with 30 years of expertise in helping patients find the medications that work best. With her ongoing support through in-office or telehealth visits, you can learn new coping strategies and take control of your PTSD at last.

If you’re struggling with intrusive memories, nightmares or being triggered in a way that feels disruptive to your life , PTSD treatment at Oasis Healing Arts can guide you to healing and recovery. Book your appointment online or call the office for help today.