Coping with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Guide for Families - Softcover

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a medically recognized disorder that develops as a result of a traumatic event; as a result of PTSD, an individual may suffer nightmares and flashbacks and become hypervigilant, angry, or emotionally numb. This work describes PTSD: causes, symptoms, effects, and coping strategies. While there is no "cure," individuals and their loved ones can find healthy ways to cope, and it is important to recognize the strengths that arise in both individuals and families as a result of living with the disorder. This handbook describes how the characteristics of PTSD manifest in daily life and details its effects on the emotional, mental, and physical aspects of an individual's life, including disorders and physical disabilities that may occur jointly or as a result. The work analyzes the affect of PTSD on the couple and the family, detailing possible reactions, and compares the characteristics of healthy and PTSD families. The work explains how and by whom the disorder is diagnosed, with discussion of cross-cultural perspectives on PTSD and the effects of cultural difference on its diagnosis and treatment. The study describes mental health approaches to treatment, such as individual, group, and substance abuse counseling. Techniques such as exposure therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Traumatic Incident Reduction are also discussed. The work describes drug treatments, including antianxiety and antidepressant medications. Newer approaches to treating PTSD such as biofeedback, relaxation techniques, and herbal medications are also explained. A conclusion suggests effective strategies for living with PTSD and indicates directions for future research. Appendices include the definitional criteria for PTSD, a list of resources for PTSD survivors, and information about veterans' benefits. A filmography and bibliography are also provided.