Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

What is PTSD?

PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, such as a car accident, assault, natural disaster, war, or other serious threats. Complex PTSD (CPTSD) can develop from repeated or prolonged traumatic experiences, often in childhood. People with CPTSD may experience similar symptoms to PTSD, along with difficulties in emotional regulation, relationships, and self-identity. OCD can also co-occur with CPTSD.

PTSD vs. OCD: Understanding the Differences and Overlaps

PTSD and OCD are sometimes confused, and while they are distinct conditions they can also co-occur.  A traumatic event can sometimes trigger OCD symptoms, or the fear of having another traumatic experience can become an obsession in OCD. 

• PTSD: Results from a traumatic event and involves reliving the trauma, avoidance, and negative thoughts and feelings.
• OCD: Involves unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that are not necessarily related to a specific event.

Can You Have Both PTSD and OCD?

Yes, PTSD and OCD can co-occur.  A traumatic event can sometimes trigger OCD symptoms, or the fear of having another traumatic experience can become an obsession in OCD.

Common Symptoms of PTSD:

• Reliving the trauma: Nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive thoughts that bring back the event.
• Avoidance: Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind them of the trauma.
• Negative thoughts and feelings: Fear, hopelessness, guilt, shame, or anger.
• Increased alertness and arousal: Difficulty sleeping, feeling jumpy or on edge, feeling easily startled.

Is PTSD Treatable?

Yes, PTSD and OCD is treatable. If you’re struggling with symptoms of PTSD or OCD, it’s important to seek help. Both conditions are highly treatable with evidence-based therapies.

Types of Treatment Options for PTSD:

• Cognitive processing therapy (CPT): This type of therapy helps you identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that are related to the trauma.
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a therapy that helps you process traumatic memories. During EMDR therapy, you will recall the traumatic event while following a therapist’s hand movements or listening to a bilateral tapping sound.
• Prolonged exposure (PE): PE is a type of therapy that helps you gradually expose yourself to the traumatic event in a safe and controlled setting.

Finding Help for PTSD:

• Talk to your doctor: They can screen you for PTSD or CPTSD and recommend treatment options.
• Seek therapy: Look for a therapist experienced in treating trauma, such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or trauma-focused CBT.
• Consider online therapy options: Some platforms offer therapy for PTSD or CPTSD via video conferencing.

The Gateway Institute is Here to Help:

We offer comprehensive treatment programs for PTSD, OCD, and other anxiety disorders. Our team of specialists will create a personalized plan to address your specific needs and help you heal from trauma or overcome OCD symptoms.