***Neurobiology of PTSD

Neurobiology of PTSD

Key Concepts

  • Hyperactive Amygdala

    • Responsible for the fight-or-flight response

    • Results in:

    • More intense emotional processing

  • Hypoactive Prefrontal Cortex

    • Leads to reduced self-control

    • Has a diminished inhibitory effect on the amygdala

    • Increases the likelihood of engaging in high-risk behavior

  • Hyperactive HPA Axis

    • Results in higher levels of cortisol (stress hormone)

  • Smaller and Hypoactive Hippocampus

    • May explain various symptoms:

    • Intrusive flashbacks

    • Nightmares

    • Distorted recurrent memories associated with the traumatic event

Treatment Approaches

Pharmacological Treatment

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

    • Effective for treating anxiety associated with PTSD

Psychological Treatment

  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

    • Involves the therapist working with the victim to develop a narrative of the traumatic image

    • Focuses on prolonged exposure to the trauma-related thoughts and feelings

  • Cognitive Therapy

    • Aims to correct negative assumptions about the trauma

    • Often integrated as part of the treatment plan

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

    • A therapeutic approach that involves the patient processing traumatic memories while focusing on external stimuli (e.g., guided eye movements)

    • Aims to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories