Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder may develop after experiencing a traumatic or life-threatening event, where the impact of the experience continues in the form of intrusive memories, avoidance of places or situations associated with the event, or a persistent sense of danger and tension. A person may experience hypervigilance, irritability, and difficulty feeling safe even long after the event has passed. Treatment aims to help the individual process the experience in a safe and gradual way, so the event loses its painful intensity and the person regains a sense of control and stability.

Recurring Nightmares

These involve distressing and repeated dreams, often linked to a traumatic experience or deep fear, leading to sudden awakening accompanied by intense anxiety or a rapid heartbeat. Nightmares can disrupt sleep and cause ongoing daytime fatigue. Treatment focuses on understanding the psychological messages connected to these dreams and reducing their intensity through anxiety regulation techniques and rebuilding a sense of safety before and during sleep.

Feelings of Guilt

Feelings of guilt may arise after a traumatic experience, especially if the person believes they could have acted differently or protected themselves or others. This feeling can sometimes turn into harsh self-blame that affects self-esteem and hinders recovery. Treatment focuses on unpacking these feelings, understanding their realistic dimensions, and helping the individual move from self-criticism toward self-acceptance, compassion, and fairness toward oneself.