PTSD Treatment

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a persistent reaction to traumatic events such as war, rape, abuse, traffic accidents, natural disasters, and robberies. Symptoms can typically appear within a few months after the event, but can also manifest much later.

During World War I, PTSD was referred to as shell shock, and it became particularly prevalent among soldiers during the Vietnam War. The diagnosis is typically made according to the WHO’s definition (ICD-10).

According to Psykiatrifonden, approximately 2% of the European population suffers from PTSD to varying degrees, which corresponds to about 50,000 Danes. PTSD can affect people of all genders and ages, but it occurs more frequently among women and young people.

Previously, PTSD was most often seen in soldiers participating in UN peacekeeping missions, but this picture has now changed. Rape and violence are the most common causes of PTSD among women. Furthermore, bank and shop assistants who have been exposed to robbery, as well as victims and witnesses of violence, murder, and natural disasters, can also develop PTSD. An example of this is the Danish tourists who experienced the tsunami in Thailand in 2004.

What is Complex PTSD?

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is a more severe form of post-traumatic stress disorder that arises after repeated or prolonged trauma, often in childhood or over an extended period. Unlike classic PTSD, which is typically caused by a single traumatic event, C-PTSD results from sustained traumas such as abuse, domestic violence, experiences as a prisoner of war, or chronic neglect. As the diagnosis of C-PTSD is relatively new, there is a growing body of research and knowledge on the subject. Therefore, we have also created a dedicated landing page for this topic.

How Does PTSD Affect Quality of Life and Close Relationships?

PTSD and Quality of Life

PTSD can significantly reduce quality of life and affect relationships with family and friends. Many people experience a loss of identity and a diminished interest in former joys. Feelings like love and self-care can disappear and be replaced by inner discomfort and worries. This can lead to depression and self-medication with alcohol or drugs. Daily life can be characterized by intrusive memories and a constant struggle to avoid triggers.

PTSD and Close Relationships

PTSD has serious consequences for close relationships, which can lead to problematic partnerships and dysfunctional families. The divorce rate is high among those suffering from PTSD, often because they are perceived as changed individuals. The affected person may withdraw socially, which impacts social activities, work situations, and educational opportunities.

How Can a Psychologist Support Individuals with PTSD and Their Relatives?

PTSD Treatment

It is important to seek psychological help early if you have PTSD or are experiencing symptoms. Without treatment, PTSD can develop into a chronic condition, which can lead to permanent personality changes. Psychologists can foster an understanding of the condition and offer a safe environment for treatment, so that traumas can be processed and no longer experienced as invasive or associated with severe discomfort. Treatment can be medical, often with antidepressants, or psychotherapeutic with methods such as EMDR.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR helps process traumas by releasing the impressions, emotions, and bodily sensations that have been locked in. This allows the brain to perform the necessary processing that it was unable to do during the overwhelming experience. Once the trauma has been processed, it will no longer be frightening to recall.