Struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder can cause people to have complex emotional responses when faced with events that remind them of their unhealed trauma. Using high doses of psychoactive drugs may allow people to experience brief periods of relief; however, their numbing effects also prevent growth and healing.
If you are looking for compassionate, caring PTSD treatment in Maine, we’re here for you. Having access to a supportive group of women who have experienced similar traumas can promote healing and a sense of belonging. Contact (855) 607-8758 to access high-quality substance use disorder treatment at Liberty Bay Recovery Center.
Women and Trauma
The conversation around women and trauma is constantly evolving. It’s now statistically proven that women are less likely to get diagnosed with PTSD directly after traumatic events take place. This may be because symptoms present themselves differently in women. Women who have experienced trauma are often victims of sexual abuse, partner violence, and exploitation.
With these horrific traumas can come a phenomenon called a “trauma bond.” Trauma bonding occurs when the victim of a traumatic event becomes attached to the perpetrator. This is often the case in situations involving partner violence.
Traumatized women can become defensive over the perpetrator of their trauma as a coping mechanism. Authorities and loved ones may not understand a woman’s actions under the influence of a trauma bond. This leads to many cases of complex PTSD, which is more likely to go undiagnosed and unnoticed in women.
Signs of PTSD in Women
It is important to recognize the signs of PTSD in women who have been through horrible life events. PTSD can be debilitating and prevent a woman from experiencing life to the fullest. Untreated PTSD can result in suicide in the most tragic cases. Some of the common signs of PTSD in women include:
- Flashbacks to specific traumatic events
- Feelings of “reliving” her trauma
- Being easily startled
- Panic attacks
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Avoiding thoughts and feelings surrounding her trauma
- Emotional numbness
These are just a few of the common signs of PTSD in women. The symptoms of PTSD can severely interfere with a woman’s life.
Women’s Unique Experiences with PTSD
Women tend to experience PTSD differently than men because of the nature of women’s mental health. Researchers have found that women are more likely to experience internalized mental health problems like anxiety and depression. This is part of the reason that PTSD symptoms can be less noticeable in women than in men.
No Trauma Is Exclusive to Women
While certain forms of trauma may be experienced disproportionally by women, there is no form of trauma that exclusively affects women. For example, the majority of intimate partner violence victimizes women. Reported sexual assault and rape rates are much higher for women. Sexism and the consequences of societal misogyny target women continuously.
Combined with the stigma attached to mental disorders, these facts make it clear why women suffer from the weight of internalized emotional dysfunction. Women are less likely to seek treatment for PTSD during their lifetime than men.
Find PTSD Treatment at Our Portland, Maine Rehab
At Liberty Bay Recovery Center in Maine, our dedicated team of empathetic, knowledgeable professionals helps women receive the PTSD treatment they need. Our clients receive high-quality mental health and addiction services in the comfort of our modern center.
If you or a woman you love are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, help is available. You do not have to go through this alone. Our skilled mental health professionals can help you redirect your mental health and lead you back to a healthy and happy life. If you are a woman seeking PTSD treatment, contact Liberty Bay Recovery Center at (855) 607-8758 for more information on our PTSD treatment services.
