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A single moment can change everything. A car accident, a medical emergency, a violent event. Trauma comes in many forms, and its impact doesn’t always fade when the danger is over. For some, the brain holds onto the traumatic experience, causing intrusive memories, heightened reactivity, and a sense of disconnection from daily life. This is PTSD.
There are four types of PTSD that are categorized by different symptoms and types of trauma, including: Acute Stress Disorder, Uncomplicated PTSD, Complex PTSD, and Comorbid PTSD.
In the state of Kentucky, more than 27% of adults manage symptoms of anxiety or depression, or both, according to a report by KFF.
At Sun Behavioral in Kentucky, we understand how crucial it is to address PTSD early. We provide a range of evidence and trauma-focused therapies to help you feel safe, process trauma, manage symptoms, and regain a sense of control. Let’s talk about how the types of PTSD differ in symptoms and treatment so you can recognize when you or a loved one are in need of support.
After experiencing trauma, the body’s stress response naturally shifts into high gear. In the days and weeks that follow, it’s common to feel on edge, emotionally exhausted, or overwhelmed by small triggers. For many, these feelings gradually ease with time, support, and healing.
PTSD happens when your body’s natural stress response doesn’t turn off. Instead of fading, the effects of trauma can linger, making it difficult to feel at ease in your own life.
PTSD symptoms fall into four main groups:
Symptoms vary from person to person. Because of this, clinicians recognize different forms of PTSD, including Acute Stress Disorder, Uncomplicated PTSD, Complex PTSD, and Comorbid PTSD.
Occurs immediately after trauma; symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, and detachment, lasting less than one month.
Develops after a single traumatic event; includes recurring distressing thoughts, nightmares, avoidance, and persistent feelings of fear or sadness.
Results from prolonged or repeated trauma; features core PTSD symptoms plus difficulty regulating emotions, relationship problems, and negative self-concept.
PTSD occurring with other mental health conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, substance use); symptoms from both PTSD and the co-occurring condition, often intensifying each other.
Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term form of PTSD that begins within three days of a traumatic event.
Imagine experiencing a deeply traumatic event – something that shakes you to your core. In the immediate aftermath, it's normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and even detached. That's what acute stress disorder (ASD) is like.
However, if those intense feelings and reactions don't fade within a month, ASD can turn into something more serious. Left untreated, it can set the stage for other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or classic PTSD. Reaching out for professional help during a bout of ASD can help you work through the trauma so it doesn’t progress into something more serious.
ACD symptoms can interfere with a person’s ability to function in their day-to-day life, and may include symptoms such as:
Getting help early can prevent ASD from developing into other mental health conditions.
Evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), can help patients process the trauma. Coping skills learned in therapy can also make emotions easier to manage. Many people find that self-care, mindfulness, and a strong support system also help restore a sense of safety
With the right care, ASD symptoms can improve, and people managing these kinds of symptoms can regain a sense of well-being.
Uncomplicated PTSD develops following exposure to a single traumatic event, such as a car accident, assault, or natural disaster. While the experience itself may be brief, the resulting distress can be long-lasting and have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. This form of PTSD is characterized by a specific trigger, making it distinct from other trauma-related conditions.
People with Uncomplicated PTSD may experience:
Uncomplicated PTSD usually responds well to therapies such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
With the right treatment, patients can heal from Uncomplicated PTSD, regain emotional balance, and move forward with confidence.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) happens when someone experiences trauma over a long period of time. It is often caused by abuse, neglect, or violence. Many people with C-PTSD feel trapped in unsafe situations with no way to escape.
People with C-PTSD may experience general PTSD symptoms along with:
C-PTSD can affect emotions, self-esteem, and daily life. Since the trauma lasts a long time, healing also takes time. But with the right support, recovery is possible.
Treatment for Complex PTSD prioritizes creating a sense of safety and stability before addressing the trauma itself. Therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy and trauma-focused therapy can help manage emotions, build relationships, and process experiences. Building a strong support system is also crucial for recovery.
Healing from Complex PTSD takes time, but with the right support, patients can rebuild trust, confidence, and a sense of self.
Comorbid PTSD means that the condition exists alongside another mental health condition. For example, a person with PTSD who also manages a substance use disorder, depression, or anxiety would be categorized as Comorbid PTSD. These co-occurring conditions can significantly complicate symptoms and treatment. The interplay between PTSD and other mental health challenges is often complex, with each condition potentially feeding into the other.
People with Comorbid PTSD may experience one or more of the following:
The best treatment for Comorbid PTSD focuses on the whole person, not just one condition.
Therapy can help patients understand their symptoms and find healthy ways to cope. In some cases, medication may also help with depression or anxiety. Lifestyle changes, support groups, and self-care can make a big difference in recovery.
With the right care, people with Comorbid PTSD can make significant progress in managing their symptoms and improving their overall well-being..
PTSD affects everyone differently. Some people recognize their symptoms right away, while others may not realize they need support until months or years after trauma. If PTSD is making daily life harder, getting help can make a difference.
The effects of trauma can make the future feel uncertain, but with the right PTSD treatment, your brain and body can heal. No matter how long PTSD has affected you or your loved one, treatment can help. It can restore confidence, rebuild connections, and bring new meaning to life.
At Sun Behavioral, treatment is a journey, not just a set of appointments. We do more than address symptoms. We show you how to build a life that supports healing. You don’t have to face PTSD alone. Call us today at (859) 429-5188 to take the first step.
Sun Kentucky: Solving Unmet Needs
820 Dolwick Drive
Erlanger, Kentucky 41018
Open 24 hours
