Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is post-traumatic stress disorder?

It is a disorder that can appear after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as violence, sexual abuse, serious accidents, armed conflict, disasters or the sudden death of a loved one. Not everyone who goes through trauma develops it.

What are its symptoms?

Intrusive memories, nightmares or flashbacks; avoiding places, people or conversations that bring it back; being constantly on guard, easily startled, irritable and sleepless; and mood changes such as guilt, shame, distrust or feeling disconnected from others. It is called PTSD when symptoms last more than a month.

How is it treated?

Trauma-focused psychotherapies have the strongest evidence, such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy and EMDR. A psychiatrist may prescribe medication for anxiety, mood and sleep symptoms. Talking about the trauma is done gradually and safely.

When should you seek help?

If symptoms have not eased weeks after the event, interfere with daily life, or come with alcohol or drug use to cope or thoughts of not wanting to live. Seeking support early lowers the risk of symptoms becoming chronic.

Find PTSD specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find psychologists and psychiatrists experienced in trauma and PTSD. Compare profiles and book your appointment.