Flashbacks and nightmares are primary symptoms of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) as well as CPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) – and they’re extremely frightening to have. What are flashbacks? When you’re having one, you’re actually experiencing the frightening event or trauma over again. Some or all of your senses are telling you it’s happening now. For example, a veteran might hear the sounds of gunfire or smell smoke, vividly reliving a traumatic combat experience. These sensations can be so real that they disrupt daily life, causing significant distress and anxiety.
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The difference between flashbacks and nightmares…
Nightmares and flashbacks occur in different states of consciousness. Flashbacks happen when you’re awake and conscious; nightmares happen during sleep. Nightmares can involve a range of distressing themes, from feelings of helplessness to fears of abandonment. You don’t have to have experienced trauma to have a nightmare, whereas flashbacks are reliving the trauma itself. For instance, someone may have nightmares that reflect their greatest fears, such as losing a loved one or failing at a significant life event, which can mirror their waking anxieties.
We’ll talk about the treatments available for both today on SelfWork. Treatment often includes therapy options such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CpT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and medications like SSRIs. Each treatment has its own benefits, and finding the right approach can be vital for someone suffering from these symptoms.
Our voicemail for today is short and to the point. A listener is asking for books on depression for children who are 8 or 9 years of age. We’ll talk about play therapy as well as resources for kids with emotional problems like depression. It’s essential to provide children with relatable literature that can help them understand their feelings.
Vital Links:
Understanding PTSD and Its Symptoms
TalkSpace article on how memories are encoded and recalled
Recommended treatments for PTSD
Yale article on treatment of PTSD
Resources for Healing
NAMI: Suggestions for children’s books on depression
Final Thoughts on Healing
Navigating through the complexities of flashbacks and nightmares requires patience, understanding, and support. It’s essential to recognize that each journey is unique, and what works for you may not work for another. You can learn to heal with the support of a therapist trained in one of these treatments.
By the way…
You can record a message for me by clicking below and ask your question or make a comment. You’ll have 90 seconds to do so and that time goes quickly. By recording, you’re giving SelfWork (and me) permission to use your voice on the podcast. I’ll look forward to hearing from you!
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