Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

virtual ptsd summit
November 7, 2023
During this two-hour virtual summit attendees heard from a variety of stakeholders on ways to more effectively support individuals living with PTSD and their support partners.
Many years of research (much of which has been conducted by the authors of this post) have shown that people who try to avoid memories and reminders of difficult experiences have more symptoms of PTSD and depression, and other problems over time.
by Shigeko Ito
Growing up in Japan with a workaholic surgeon father and an often-absent socialite mother, I was raised by a revolving cast of caregivers who worked at my father's hospital. An unstable home environment and lack of a consistent caregiver created in me a melancholic, anxious child prone to insomnia.

Respiratory Training (CGRI) vs Interoceptive Exposure in the Treatment of Transdiagnostic Pathological Anxiety: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Eligibility Criteria

1. Clinically elevated anxiety

2. Meets DSM-5 criteria for one or more of the following anxiety or trauma-related disorders as their “primary” mental disorder:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  • Panic Disorder
  • Health Anxiety
  • Agoraphobia
  • Social Anxiety Disorder
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
  • Acute Stress Disorder
  • Adjustment Disorder with primary anxious mood
  • Anxiety Disorder not otherwise specified

3. No current use of psychotropic medications or stable on current medications for at least 6 weeks

4. Age 18+

5. Able to arrange transportation to our laboratory for study appointments

6. English speaking

Exclusion Criteria

1. No history of medical conditions that would contraindicate participation in fear-provocation or respiratory challenges, including:

  • Cardiovascular or respiratory disorders
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Epilepsy
  • Strokes
  • Seizures
  • Pregnant or lactating

2. Not currently receiving other psychological treatment for anxiety.

3. No history of a suicide attempt within the past 6 months.

4. No history of psychosis within the past 6 months.

5. No history of moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder (with the exception of nicotine) within the past 3 months.

6. Does not endorse COVID-19 symptoms during the screening phase.

State
Texas

Have you been struggling with anxiety symptoms?

The Laboratory for the Study of Anxiety Disorders at the University of Texas at Austin is conducting an intervention study examining how three interventions may be helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms among individuals with anxiety or trauma-related disorders. Participants will be required to come to UT Austin’s campus. Participants who complete all study requirements will be eligible to receive $50 in compensation.

How Do We React to Trauma?

 

Trauma affects us in profound ways, shaping our emotional and physical responses. In this engaging video by ADAA member Dr. Arash Javanbakht, discover the various ways our minds and bodies react to traumatic events. Gain insights that can help promote resilience and well-being.
 

Check out our ADAA members' new books that offer help for the public and support for professionals.

How Common is PTSD?

Did you know that approximately 8% of the general population experiences PTSD? Today is PTSD Screening Day and ADAA member Dr. Arash Javanbakht‘s video offers important insights on the prevalence of PTSD. Help spread awareness and support those affected by using #PTSDAwareness #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthSupport

How PTSD Changes the Brain

Ever wonder how PTSD changes the brain? This PTSD Awareness Month,  Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a renowned psychiatrist and ADAA member, sheds light on the fascinating neuroscience behind PTSD in this insightful video. Gain a deeper understanding of the brain's response to trauma and the potential for healing. 

What happens in PTSD, is that the brain goes into the fight and flight mode and is constantly on alert to protect the person from recurrence of the highly dangerous experience. But the problem is that it cannot come down from that state of heightened arousal, even after leaving the dangerous situation, and coming back to the safe life environment.