PTSD

General Psychiatrist located in Miledgeville and Macon, GA

PTSD services offered in Miledgeville and Macon, GA

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop in anyone who experiences a traumatic event, whether they’re in the military or encounter it in their everyday life. Ronnie Blount, MD, in Milledgeville and Macon, Georgia, has years of experience helping people learn to manage and overcome PTSD, providing the tailored care needed to meet each person’s unique challenges. If you struggle with PTSD, call the nearest office or schedule an appointment online today.

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PTSD Q&A

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a psychological condition that begins after experiencing a dangerous event or being subjected to emotional or mental stress. You can also develop PTSD if you witness the situation.

The traumatic events commonly responsible for PTSD include:

Military duty
Domestic violence
Gun violence
Robberies
Accidents (car, plane, boat, etc.)
Assault (physical or sexual)
Emotional abuse
Death of a loved one
Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods, and tornadoes)

You may also end up with PTSD after learning a family member or friend experienced a traumatic event.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

Traumatic events make everyone feel anxious or fearful for a short time, but their feelings gradually improve. You have PTSD when your symptoms last a month or longer.

The symptoms associated with PTSD include:

Anxiety
Nightmares
Flashbacks
Anger
Irritability
Guilt and shame
Difficulty sleeping
Depression
Social isolation
Difficulty concentrating
Avoidance

Flashbacks and sudden memories cause intense fear, anxiety, or anger. Avoidance refers to going out of your way to steer clear of the places, people, and activities that remind you of the trauma.

Why do PTSD symptoms flare up?

During a traumatic event, your brain records the details, including the sounds, smells, and sights. But you’re not aware of them because they’re tucked away in your subconscious.

Then one day, you encounter a similar detail. It triggers the forgotten detail in your subconscious and brings back the memory of the trauma. These sudden memories often cause powerful emotions and behaviors.

How is PTSD treated?

When you meet Dr. Blount, he learns about your symptoms and the traumatic event and completes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. After diagnosing PTSD, he recommends a treatment plan that targets your mental health needs and goals.

PTSD treatment includes therapy, medication, or both. There aren’t any medications that directly target PTSD, but Dr. Blount may prescribe medicines that help calm your anxiety and other symptoms.

Therapy is important because it helps you learn what triggers PTSD symptoms and understand the impact of trauma on your emotional and mental health. During therapy, Dr. Blount helps you explore your memories and learn to manage the difficult emotions they bring up. Then you learn ways to cope, deal with the anxiety, and overcome your PTSD.

Ronnie Blount, MD, provides comprehensive care for PTSD. Schedule an appointment by calling or using the online booking feature today.