Important Signs and Symptoms of PTSD You Shouldn't Ignore

Intrusive Memories

PTSD symptoms include experiencing recurring and unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event and reliving the traumatic event in the form of flashbacks. Intrusive memories also arise in upsetting dreams and nightmares about the traumatic event and experiencing negative physical reactions and severe emotional distress about something that triggers memories of the traumatic event. Intrusive memories caused by PTSD are preoccupying and debilitating, often interfere with daily functioning and can even lead to suicidal thoughts and feelings. The treatment of intrusive memories can be achieved with different approaches and techniques. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy helps the client examine core negative beliefs and seeks to replace them with positive ones. If unhealthy anger is a coping strategy for the PTSD sufferer, anger management therapy techniques such as using self-talk to soothe oneself and de-escalate the anger can be helpful for changing one’s mood into a more positive one.