PTSD: ANOTHER INVISIBLE FRONT OF WAR

By Dr. Gianluca Mineo, Psychologist, Hypnologo regressive, motivator, experiential trainer, therapist EMDR, EFT, Autogenous Training and Certified Mindfulness Instructor.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental condition that can affect not only soldiers but also civilians. While soldiers often experience symptoms after facing combat situations, even people who have suffered trauma such as accidents, sexual violence, or natural disasters can develop this condition. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, how to recognize those suffering from PTSD, and what are the possible therapies to process it.

PTSD is a psychopathological condition that can manifest itself in various ways and with symptoms that can vary over time. The duration of symptoms can differ for each individual, with some recovering completely within three months and others continuing to experience them for more than a year.

Typically, PTSD symptoms begin within the first three months after a traumatic event, although in some cases there may be a significant delay before a diagnosis can be made. However, it is recommended that a diagnosis of PTSD be made at least one month after the traumatic event. PTSD causes clinically significant distress or impairment of social, occupational and relational functioning. Typically, individuals with PTSD experience anxiety, depression, intense and emotionally disturbing memories of the traumatic event.

SYMPTOMS OF PTSD:

The characteristic symptoms of PTSD include:

• Intrusive memories and disturbing images.

• The need to avoid situations or stimuli associated with the traumatic event.

• Cognitive and emotional alterations, such as post-traumatic amnesia and negative thoughts about oneself, others, and the world.
  

• Hyperactivity and reactivity, such as irritability, hypervigilance, concentration difficulties, and sleep disturbances.
  

HOW TO RECOGNIZE PTSD IN PEOPLE:

People with PTSD may also experience depersonalization, a feeling of estrangement from themselves, and derealization, a feeling of unreality in the surrounding world.

It is important to note that not all traumatic events lead to the development of PTSD, and most individuals who experience trauma naturally go through some form of psychological distress, which often resolves over time. However, if symptoms persist intensely for at least one month, it is essential to recognize and address the disorder with the help of a professional to facilitate the process of processing the traumatic event. I believe that the sensitivity of people or colleagues who live next door to someone who has experienced a very strong pain or trauma is crucial in noticing the suffering and signaling to the person the need for them to seek the appropriate help for healing and returning to a healthy life.

PTSD IN SOLDIERS:

Soldiers can be exposed to a variety of traumatic events during their service, including combat, attacks, explosions, loss of comrades, constant danger, and more. These events can be triggers for the development of PTSD. Experiences such as violence, death, and constant threat can lead to debilitating symptoms such as flashbacks, recurring nightmares, hypervigilance, and irritability. Soldiers may struggle to reintegrate into social life, manage their emotions, sleep, and form healthy relationships. Support for soldiers with PTSD is essential to help them overcome the trauma and adapt to return to a normal life, to 'go home with themselves'.

PTSD IN THE GENERAL POPULATION:

The general population can also experience this condition. Traumatic events such as car accidents, sexual abuse, physical or psychological violence, natural disasters, or acts of terrorism can cause PTSD in people . Victims of these events may be affected by soldier-like symptoms, including intrusive memories, avoidance of trauma-inducing situations, hyperactivity of the nervous system and depression. It is essential that victims receive the necessary support and care to heal from their trauma.

TREATMENTS FOR THE PTSD:

The good news is that PTSD can be treated and affected people can achieve a better life. Multiple therapeutic approaches can be used to help patients cope with trauma and resolve symptoms.

To address and heal post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), several effective intervention strategies are available. Here is a summary of the main ones:

• Ask for help: the first thing to do if you recognize that you have suffered a trauma or if you notice symptoms in a loved one is to ask for help. Do not try to deal with the trauma alone, as this can worsen the condition.
• Social and family support: The presence of strong social and family support before and after trauma exposure is protective. It is important to share your feelings and experiences with trusted people.
  
• Consulting a professional: consulting your doctor is an important step. Your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist for an initial diagnosis to assess whether medication is needed. In addition, you can advise a therapist to begin a course of psychotherapy.
  
• Psychotherapy: therapy is fundamental for the treatment of PTSD. Psychotherapists specializing in psychotrauma use clinical interviews and psychometric tests to assess symptoms and their severity. Some effective therapies include psychoanalytic or cognitive-behavioral-oriented psychotherapy integrated with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): this technique uses bilateral stimulation to facilitate trauma processing. It is particularly effective for PTSD.
  
• Memory retrieval: trauma can fragment memory and generate confusion about the sequence of events. Therapy can help recover memories accurately and reduce confusion.
  

In general, it is important to seek help early and follow targeted treatment, as PTSD can worsen if not treated properly. The support of a professional can significantly contribute to recovery and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by PTSD.

In conclusion, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a serious disorder caused by extreme situations that can leave deep scars on people, but with the help of appropriate therapies, it is possible to heal and overcome debilitating symptoms. It is essential for those who suffer from PTSD to receive the proper support to address associated issues and return to a normal life.

As a society, it is our responsibility to support and understand those who suffer from this invisible condition.

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The author: Dr Gianluca Mineo

Psychologist, Regression Hypnotherapist, Motivator, Experiential Trainer, EMDR Therapist, EFT Therapist, Autogenic Training Practitioner, and Certified Mindfulness Instructor.

Registered in Section A of the Register of Psychologists in Lazio with license number 25769, I work as an Experiential Trainer, specializing in facilitating the learning of Soft Skills (Leadership, Team Building, Effective Communication, Negotiation, Problem Solving, Emotional Intelligence, and Conflict Management). I deal with gender dynamics (Gender Advisor) and I work with ASL ROMA 4 as a Clinical Psychologist.

I have gained experience in contact with children and adolescents, following the dynamics of class groups within schools, with particular attention to the cases of children with special educational needs (SEN). In the clinical context, my work involves promoting personal growth, to conduct habilitation-rehabilitation activities and psychological support for children, adolescents, adults and families as well as organizations.

As a psycho-traumatologist, I specialize in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a particular protocol for processing traumatic experiences such as abuse, violence, or life-threatening experiences,aimed at people and groups. I am a member of the Italian EMDR Society. I am an EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) therapist, a protocol used for emotional liberation such as anxiety, anger and fear.

Speaker and moderator in public events.