Did you know? June is nationally-recognized as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. Further, Congress declared June 27th PTSD Awareness Day to bring attention to the disorder in 2010.
In an effort to help educate people about PTSD, and connect them with new treatment options, Freedom Ketamine Treatment Centers has compiled the following important information on the disorder.
The National Center for PTSD estimates that between 7-8 percent of the population will experience PTSD (also known as Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, PTSS) in their lifetime.
PTSD is a result of trauma, and anyone can experience it; even children. The disorder is often recognized with veterans, as many who have experienced combat can encounter it. Other traumatic events, such as accidents, natural disasters, and familial or domestic abuse are other common causes.
PTSD is treatable, and there are numerous resources available to those experiencing it. Some common signs and symptoms include:
Painful memories, flashbacks, or nightmares
Generally apathy or depression in thoughts or mood
Hypervigilance or newfound nervousness
Self-destructive and/or generally risky behavior
Difficulty concentrating
Problems with sleep
And many others
Children may experience different symptoms.
While there are numerous resources available for those with PTSD, including individual talk therapy, medication, group therapy, and more, emerging research shows that ketamine infusion therapy, and stellate ganglion blocks, are effective treatment methods for the disorder.
“Ketamine infusion therapy is the future of mental healthcare in this country.”
This is a quote from Dr. Aubrey Verdun, MD and Medical Director at Freedom Ketamine Treatment Centers.
Studies show that ketamine, which was originally used as an anesthetic, can temporarily block neurotransmitter receptors in specific areas of the brain, effectively making way for repair of neural pathways, and, in turn, reducing symptoms of PTSD and other treatment-resistant mental conditions. The medicine is given slowly over the course of about 40 minutes. As the body metabolizes the medication, in about 20-minutes, patients begin to see results.
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Therapy can also help treat chronic anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when conducted under physician care. The stellate ganglion is a group of nerves found in the last vertebra of the neck, part of the sympathetic nervous system. The SGB procedure injects a long-acting anesthetic to this part of the neck, under ultrasound guidance, and attempts to reset the brain’s “fight or flight” mode.The procedure takes about 15-minutes to conduct, under physician care, and benefits are felt by patients before they leave our office. Numerous peer-reviewed studies show the efficacy of this treatment option.
For additional resources on PTSD, visit:
SAMHSA’s Mental Health Services Locator
NIMH and National Institutes of Health fact sheets and information on clinical trials and scientific studies on PTSD
The National Center for Trauma Informed Care
SAMHSA’s Military Families Strategic Initiative.
Veterans Chat for veterans, family members or friends in crisis.
To schedule a consultation for ketamine infusion therapy in the DMV, contactFreedom Ketamine Treatment Centers, with offices in Rockville, Bethesda, Columbia, Reston, Vienna, and Marshall. With a team of highly-experienced, Board-Certified physicians and incredible ratings, you can rely on Freedom Ketamine Treatment Centers for the compassionate care you deserve.