What is PTSD: Psychological Treatment Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
The post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) It is a serious psychological disorder that can appear after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. At CALMA Psicólogos, we treat people in Fuengirola and Mijas who suffer from symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, anxiety or avoidance related to that trauma. Treatment is based on a combination of specialised psychotherapy and, in some cases, pharmacological support, underpinned by collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Artículo relacionado, quizás te interesa leer sobre: ANSIEDAD: Qué es
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
The post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) It is a serious psychological disorder that can appear after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. At CALMA Psicólogos, we treat people in Fuengirola and Mijas who suffer from symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, anxiety or avoidance related to that trauma. Treatment is based on a combination of specialised psychotherapy and, in some cases, pharmacological support, underpinned by collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Recommended reading Qué es TRAUMA
Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD symptoms can be divided into four main categories:
1. Intrusions
-
Unwanted memories of the event
-
Recurring nightmares
-
Flashbacks
-
Intense reactions to trauma-related stimuli
2. Avoidance
-
Avoiding places, people, or activities that are reminiscent of trauma
-
Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the event
3. Cognitive and mood alterations
-
Negative beliefs about oneself or one's environment
-
Inappropriate guilt, anhedonia or detachment
-
Persistent negative emotions such as fear or shame
4. Alterations in activation and reactivity
-
Insomnia
-
Irritability or fits of anger
-
Difficulty concentrating
-
Hypervigilance or frequent startles
It can also appear a dissociative subtype of PTSD, with symptoms of depersonalization and derealization.
PTSD Diagnosis according to the DSM-5-TR
To diagnose the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, it is necessary that:
-
The person has been exposed to direct or indirect trauma.
-
Symptoms presented in each of the 4 categories mentioned.
-
The duration shall be at least 1 month.
-
The condition significantly interferes with daily life and is not better explained by other medical causes or substances.
Psychological treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
At CALMA Psychologists (Fuengirola and Mijas), we work with a holistic and empathetic approach to support you in your recovery process. The treatment includes:
Self-care and psychoeducational support
-
We promote healthy routines, personal safety, and social connection.
-
Reducing isolation and emotional management
Specialised psychotherapy
We apply the most effective evidence-based therapies:
-
Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (recommended reading: What is CBT)
-
Cognitive processing therapy
-
Prolonged exposure
-
EMDR (Desensibilización y reprocesamiento por movimientos oculares) ( lectura recomendada: What is EMDR?)
Related article Desmontando mitos: EMDR
The therapeutic relationship Close, empathetic, and respectful are key throughout the entire process.
Complementary pharmacotherapy
Although psychotherapy is the main treatment, medication may be used in certain cases:
-
SSRIs (for anxiety and depression)
-
Prazosin (for nightmares)
-
Mood stabilisers
-
Psychedelics (under research)
At CALMA Psicólogos, we collaborate with trusted psychiatrists, when necessary, to integrate pharmacological treatment with psychological therapy.
When to seek psychological help for PTSD?
If weeks or months have passed since a traumatic event and you notice the symptoms are interfering with your well-being or daily life, it's time to seek professional support. CALMA Psychologists Fuengirola and Mijas, We help you understand what's happening to you and start a safe and effective recovery path.
Lectura recomendad para conocer más sobre los: Types of anxiety
El trastorno de estrés postraumático puede afectar a cualquiera que haya experimentado o presenciado un acontecimiento traumático.
The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder particularly affects professionals exposed to situations of high emotional impact, such as Police officers, firefighters, and members of state security forces.
Due to the nature of their work, these professionals frequently encounter traumatic events such as serious accidents, violence, extreme rescues, or human loss, which can lead to intense symptoms of stress, anxiety, flashbacks, or insomnia.
However, it is not exclusive to this sector.
At CALMA Psicólogos, we understand the emotional toll that these professions can take. That's why we offer a specialised psychological support space for Police and emergency services personnel suffering from PTSD, with therapies adapted to their context and rhythm of life.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of bravery and self-care.
Quizás te interese leer el post: What is EMDR actually about?
Are you looking to treat your Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Fuengirola – Mijas or online?
📍 Face-to-face consultation in Fuengirola
🖥️ PTSD Therapy online from anywhere
👥 Professional, warm and personalised care for your relationship
Get in touch today and take the first step towards tackling your post-traumatic stress.
📲 [624 00 21 27]
📧 [info@calmapsicologos.com]
📍 C/ San Pancracio 7, Edificio Terminal I, 2º-5, Fuengirola (Málaga)