By Anna Wachtel, MD
After surviving a life-altering event—like an accident, an assault, or the sudden loss of a loved one—many people find themselves haunted by the past. Nightmares, anxiety, and a constant sense of danger may persist for months or years. These experiences are not a sign of weakness; they may be signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that affects both mind and body.
As a psychiatrist, I’ve seen firsthand how trauma can reshape lives—but I’ve also seen how treatment can help people reclaim them.
What Causes PTSD?
PTSD develops after exposure to overwhelming or life-threatening events, but not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. Factors like genetics, past experiences, and support systems influence the response.
Some common triggers include:
- Physical or sexual assault
- Military combat
- Serious accidents or injuries
- Natural disasters
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Sudden or violent loss of a loved one
- Medical trauma or near-death experiences
Recognizing the Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms usually fall into four main categories. When these symptoms persist longer than a month and interfere with daily functioning, it may be time to seek help.
- Intrusive Memories: Flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted distressing thoughts
- Avoidance: Avoiding trauma reminders such as places, people, or conversations
- Changes in Thinking and Mood: Guilt, shame, hopelessness, or emotional numbness
- Heightened Arousal: Irritability, jumpiness, insomnia, or feeling constantly on edge
How Therapy Can Help with PTSD
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for PTSD, but evidence-based therapies can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Some effective therapy options include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps patients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns. It also gently exposes them to avoided memories or situations to reduce fear.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
This approach involves repeatedly and safely confronting trauma-related thoughts, which can help reduce their emotional power.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR uses guided eye movements to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they become less distressing.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Schema Therapy
These therapies address deep-rooted emotional patterns and inner “parts” of the self—especially useful for early or complex trauma.
What Are the Medication Options for PTSD?
Medication can support recovery by reducing symptoms such as anxiety, nightmares, or mood instability—making therapy more accessible and effective.
- SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, paroxetine) – First-line treatment for PTSD
- Prazosin – Often used to reduce trauma-related nightmares
- Atypical antipsychotics or mood stabilizers – For more complex or severe cases
Medication can serve as a bridge—not a crutch—on the journey to healing.
Whole-Person Recovery After Trauma
Healing is more than symptom reduction. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, creative expression, and community support can help regulate the nervous system and restore a sense of safety, agency, and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions About PTSD and Trauma Recovery
Common signs of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding trauma reminders, emotional numbness, and heightened arousal such as irritability, insomnia, or feeling constantly on edge.
Yes, PTSD can sometimes appear months or even years after the original trauma. This is known as delayed-onset PTSD and is more common than many people realize.
Yes. Many individuals recover through therapy alone. Effective approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), depending on the nature of the trauma.
Treatment length varies. Some people experience relief in a few weeks, while others require several months or longer, depending on the trauma’s severity and the therapy used.
Absolutely. Childhood trauma can influence adult emotions, relationships, and beliefs. Therapies like schema therapy and IFS are specifically designed to help process early-life trauma.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just starting to explore therapy, compassionate support is available. At Anna Wachtel, MD Psychiatry for Health, we’re here to help you move forward—at your own pace, with care that meets you where you are.
Anna Wachtel, MD
Psychiatry for Health – Upper East Side, NYC
📞 (212) 534-8816
Offering in-person and telepsychiatry sessions for PTSD, anxiety, and mood disorders.