What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition caused by exposure to life-threatening or deeply distressing events. When we experience a traumatic event, the amygdala, the part of the brain that processes emotions and fear, signals to other parts of the brain that there is a threat. In response, the sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This cascade of events helps the body react quickly to the danger at hand.

Under normal circumstances, once the threat is over, the brain and body return to a state of calm, however, in individuals with PTSD, the brain continues to act as if the threat is still present, even when the danger has long passed.

How PTSD Effects the Brain

1. Amygdala: The Fear Center

The amygdala is central to the emotional response to fear. In PTSD, the amygdala becomes sensitive to potential threats, even in situations where there is no immediate danger. This hyperactivity contributes to the heightened emotional responses and anxiety often experienced by those with PTSD. In fact, the constant "fight or flight" response can lead to the frequent occurrence of flashbacks or intrusive memories.

2. Prefrontal Cortex: The Decision-Maker

The prefrontal cortex (PFC), responsible for reasoning, decision-making, and regulating emotional responses, tends to be underactive in people with PTSD. In PTSD, the PFC is less able to suppress the amygdala’s emotional responses, making it difficult for individuals to regulate emotions and distinguish between past and present events.

3. Hippocampus: Memory and Context

The hippocampus, responsible for forming and recalling memories, may shrink in size in individuals with PTSD. This shrinking causes difficulties in distinguishing between past and present experiences. When the hippocampus is compromised, memories of trauma can become confused with present reality, leading to flashbacks and a sense that the traumatic event is occurring again.

4. Anterior Cingulate Cortex: Emotional Regulation and Conflict Resolution

The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is involved in regulating emotions, particularly in times of conflict or stress. In people with PTSD, the ACC is less active, making it harder to regulate emotions. This results in emotional numbness, irritability, or difficulty coping with stress.

How PTSD Impacts Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that transmit signals in the brain, are also impacted by PTSD.

• Serotonin: Serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. In PTSD, levels of serotonin may be altered, contributing to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and irritability.
• Dopamine: Dopamine is associated with reward and pleasure. In PTSD, dopamine dysregulation can lead to an impaired ability to experience pleasure (a symptom known as anhedonia) and contribute to the emotional numbing often seen in PTSD.

Additionally, cortisol, the stress hormone, plays a significant role in the stress response. Chronic PTSD may lead to abnormal cortisol levels, which exacerbates stress responses.

Therapy for PTSD

I specialize in treating individuals who suffer from PTSD. I utilize EMDR therapy which can help the brain develop healthier ways of processing and perceiving threats. Additionally, therapy will help you feel less shame related to trauma and find healthier ways to understand past disturbing experiences. Contact me to get started with PTSD Therapy. Offered online to residents in Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.