PTSD

People with PTSD may have “flashbacks” in which they relive the traumatic event again and again through nightmares and unbidden memories during the day. During a flashback, someone may suddenly lose touch with reality and relive images, sounds, smells and other sensations from the trauma. It may feel like the event is happening all over again.  Because of their extreme anxiety about the event, they try to avoid anything that reminds them of it. They may seem emotionally numb, detached, irritable, and easily startled. They may feel guilty about surviving a traumatic event that killed other people.

            To schedule an appointment:  email or phone: 734-478-2394

Other symptoms include trouble concentrating, depression, and sleep difficulties. Symptoms of the disorder usually begin shortly after the traumatic event, although some people may not show symptoms for several years. If left untreated, the disorder can last for years.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can severely disrupt one’s life. Besides the emotional pain of reliving the trauma, the symptoms of the disorder may cause a person to think that he or she is “going crazy.” In addition, people with this disorder may have unpredictable, angry outbursts at family members. At other times, they may seem to have no affection for their loved ones. Some people try to mask their symptoms by abusing alcohol or drugs. Others work very long hours to prevent any “down” periods when they might relive the trauma. Such actions may delay the onset of the disorder until these individuals retire or become sober. "Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder," Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2008  http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

Center for Creative Growth is a counseling practice that helps people find solutions to problems by using their own creativity.  

             To schedule an appointment:  email or phone: 734-478-2394

Susan Boyes, ATR-BC, LPC, is a Board Certified, Nationally Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Michigan.

Visit my Blog 

Susan helps people of all ages to navigate difficult changes.  Susan also provides Art Therapy for people that have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury.

Center for Creative Growth serves the communities in southeastern Michigan, including: Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Chelsea, Dexter, Grass Lake, Jackson, Saline, Tecumseh, Pinckney, Washtenaw County, Livingston County, Barton Hills Village, Belleville, Bingham Farms, Brighton, Canton, Commerce, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Hartland, Highland, Howell, Livonia, Milan, Milford, New Boston, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Romulus, South Lyon, Sylvan Lake, Waltz, White Lake, Whitmore Lake.