Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, also commonly known as PTSD, is a condition that affects emotional balance and wellbeing. It is caused by a traumatic experience, such as witnessing a shocking event or behaviour, losing a loved one, or being in an accident or disaster. This type of severe trauma often surrounds death, the threat of death, serious injury, or sexual assault.

People in some professions are more likely to face dangerous situations associated with trauma. Military personnel, emergency responders, and hospital care workers all experience higher rates of PTSD than other occupations.

PTSD can emerge in many forms, often combining emotions like fear, anxiety, nervousness, shame, guilt, worry, and panic. It is common for people to replay details of the trauma repeatedly in their minds. Those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder sometimes have frequent or recurring nightmares, flashbacks, clammy skin, sweats, shaking hands and limbs, heart palpitations, light-headedness, dizziness, nausea, and/or insomnia. Association with particular places, people, objects, or activities can all trigger a PTSD attack; those suffering from the disorder often avoid contact with those triggers. For example, someone who endured a near-drowning may be unable to swim again; someone who witnessed a murder may avoid the location where that crime took place.

Many patients report an inability to manage strong emotions, and have been more prone to anger, depression, frustration, and violence. They have an inability to concentrate, startle easily, and live in constant fear that something terrible is about to happen. If untreated, post-traumatic stress disorder can lead to problems at work, and within relationships with family and friends. Many sufferers of PTSD turn to alcohol, drugs, or other behaviours in attempt to calm their nerves and escape from the feelings.

It is important to understand that your feelings are real, and that real help is available. Specialized counselling techniques such as cognitive behavioural and exposure therapies can be very effective. Deep relaxation techniques can also support the healing process. Support groups can provide the comfort of others who are on a similar journey. Laser therapy has also proven to be extremely effective in helping patients to overcome post-traumatic stress disorder.

Our programs are tailored to each individual and results vary accordingly.