Not All PTSD Is the Same! Common Forms of Trauma and What to Do About Them

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often thought of as a single condition, but it varies according to the nature of the trauma and how the brain processes it. Why is this worth mentioning? Just like you might treat food poisoning differently from the flu, the different types of PTSD require a tailored approach to get you on the mend. Recognizing the differences in PTSD types can help you better understand your symptoms and seek the right kind of trauma therapy. 

Types of PTSD You Should Know 

Any case of PTSD can cause nightmares, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, etc., but the root cause could be anything from child abuse to active combat to a car accident. Thus, PTSD is generally categorized by symptom onset and duration. You might be dealing with: 

• Acute PTSD – Symptoms last less than three months, often following a single traumatic event. 

• Chronic PTSD – Symptoms persist beyond three months, typically from prolonged exposure to trauma. 

• Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) – Results from repeated trauma over time, often during childhood or in abusive relationships. 

• Dissociative PTSD – Involves symptoms like depersonalization and memory gaps. 

• Delayed-Onset PTSD – Symptoms emerge six months or more after the trauma. 

Once you’ve been diagnosed, you can work toward developing strategies for safety and emotional regulation. Trauma-informed therapists use tools like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), cognitive processing therapy, and somatic work in PTSD treatment to address both the emotional and physical sides of trauma. 

Your Trauma Won’t Be Dealt With Alone

If you're struggling with trauma-related symptoms and want to put the past behind you with PTSD treatment that’s tailored to your needs, you’re in the right place. Schedule a session today to begin trauma therapy designed for real healing. We can’t wait to meet you!