Types of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

There are 5 different types of PTSD:

•    Normal Stress Response-this type of post-traumatic stress disorder occurs when an otherwise psychologically healthy adult is involved in one very traumatic event that causes extremely fearful memories.  This is accompanied by a numbing feeling, a sense of dissociation  and muscle tension.  Usually these patients will recover fairly quickly with the help of a debriefing.

•    Acute Stress Disorder-This type of PTSD features panic attacks, confusion, insomnia, paranoia, and dissociation.  The individual suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder also has difficulty taking care of basic needs, working a job and maintaining relationships.  In these situations trauma is usually due to a severe catastrophic event that resulted in death or annihilation of a home or a community.  These patients require extensive medication and therapy to recover.

•    Uncomplicated Post-traumatic Stress Disorder-This anxiety disorder  has the individual reliving the traumatic occurrence over and over again.  The patient tries to avoid any reminder of the event and can experience emotional numbness and attenuated arousal. 

•    Comorbid PTSD-This post-traumatic stress disorder usually exists side by side with other psychological diseases.  Usually substance abuse, depression, or panic attacks accompany the PTSD.  In this instance both the post-traumatic stress disorder and the other psychological issues must be treated simultaneously.

•    Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder-This PTSD is also called Disorder of Extreme Stress. Patients with this disorder have been exposed to a long period of trauma that usually begins in childhood.  Often sexual or physical abuse is involved.  These individual can be aggressive, have addictions or eating disorders, and may be self destructive.  Treatment is quite lengthy and must be carried out by highly trained individuals.