PTSD Treatment

Living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can feel like an overwhelming challenge. Here at Complete Wellness, we understand the profound impact PTSD has on daily life and relationships. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate PTSD treatment in Bend, OR, tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

Understanding PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. For many, this condition disrupts daily life, making it difficult to function at work, maintain relationships, or even engage in everyday activities. In Bend, OR, we’ve observed the far-reaching effects of PTSD within our community. 

In February 2023, over 30% of adults in Oregon reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Additionally, the state faces challenges with substance use and mental health services, as many adults with mental health symptoms report not receiving necessary care.

Causes and Risk Factors

PTSD can develop following exposure to any traumatic event, such as natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat, or personal assaults. Risk factors include experiencing intense or long-lasting trauma, having a job that increases your risk of exposure to traumatic events, such as military personnel and first responders, and having other mental health issues like anxiety or depression.

Common Symptoms

PTSD manifests in various ways, often characterized by persistent and distressing thoughts or flashbacks of the traumatic event. Common symptoms include:

• Intrusive thoughts – Recurrent, involuntary, and distressing memories of the traumatic event.
• Avoidance – Avoiding thoughts, feelings, places, or conversations about the traumatic event.
• Negative changes in thinking and mood – Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world.
• Changes in physical and emotional reactions – Being easily startled or frightened, trouble sleeping, and irritability.

Early intervention is crucial for managing PTSD effectively, and treatments may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Treatments for PTSD

Effective PTSD treatment in Bend, OR, often involves a combination of different therapies. The variety of treatment options include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Therapists work with patients to recognize distortions in their thinking, develop more balanced and effective ways of interpreting events, and practice behaviors that lead to improved emotional and psychological functioning.

This therapy is evidence-based and has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, helping individuals regain a sense of control, and improving their overall quality of life.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a specialized therapy that uses guided eye movements to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories. During an EMDR session, patients focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously following the therapist’s finger or another external stimulus with their eyes. This process is thought to help reprocess the traumatic event, reducing its emotional impact.

EMDR has been found to be particularly effective for those who have not responded well to other forms of therapy, offering a non-invasive and efficient way to reduce PTSD symptoms.

Medication Management

Medication can be an important component of PTSD treatment, particularly for managing symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Psychiatrists may prescribe antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or sleep aids to help alleviate symptoms.

When used in conjunction with therapy, medication can help stabilize mood and improve the ability to engage in therapeutic processes, leading to better overall outcomes.

Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques

Mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga are used to help individuals manage stress and improve emotional regulation. These techniques encourage individuals to focus on the present moment, reducing the impact of past traumas and decreasing overall stress levels.

Regular practice of mindfulness and stress reduction techniques can lead to improved mental health, reduced PTSD symptoms, and a greater sense of well-being.

Support Groups and Community Resources

Engaging with support groups and local resources can provide individuals with a sense of community and shared experience. Support groups offer a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and receive support from others who understand what they are going through. Community resources can include various services, such as counseling, workshops, and recreational activities designed to support mental health.

These resources foster healing and resilience by providing social support, reducing feelings of isolation, and offering practical help and encouragement in managing PTSD symptoms.

Combining these various therapies and resources allows for a comprehensive approach to PTSD treatment, addressing both the psychological and physical aspects of the disorder, and helping individuals in Bend, OR, to recover and thrive.

Complete Wellness Approach to PTSD

At Complete Wellness, we take a holistic approach to PTSD treatment in Bend, OR. We recognize that each person’s experience with PTSD is unique, requiring personalized treatment plans to address their specific needs. Our services include both short-term and intensive treatments, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all patients.

Holistic Treatment

We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our holistic treatment approach integrates physical, mental, and emotional health to promote overall well-being. This includes a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to support recovery.

Integration of Physical, Mental, and Emotional Health

Our comprehensive PTSD treatment is designed to address the interconnected aspects of health. By focusing on physical wellness through activities like exercise and nutrition, alongside mental health support through therapy and counseling, we create a balanced treatment plan that fosters long-term recovery.

Personalized Treatment Plans

No two cases of PTSD are the same, which is why we create individualized treatment plans for each patient. Our team of experts works closely with patients to understand their unique experiences and develop a tailored approach that addresses their specific symptoms and needs.

Dual Diagnosis and PTSD

Dual diagnosis, which addresses co-occurring mental health disorders and substance use disorders, is crucial in treating PTSD because it recognizes the interplay between these conditions. 

By simultaneously targeting both PTSD and substance abuse, dual diagnosis offers a more comprehensive treatment approach, reducing symptoms more effectively and improving overall outcomes. This integrated treatment helps patients manage their trauma-related symptoms while also addressing any substance use issues.

Find Hope and Healing with our PTSD Treatment in Bend, OR

The journey to recovery from PTSD can be challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Complete Wellness, we are here to support you every step of the way. Our comprehensive treatment plans are designed to help you regain control of your life and achieve lasting wellness.

Don’t let the misconceptions prevent you from seeking the help you deserve. Contact us today for compassionate and effective PTSD treatment in Bend, OR.