PTSD Treatments: Psychiatric Medication vs. Art Therapies By Harley Braun

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder? Defined as a stress-related disorder that can be experienced by adults and children Must be triggered by exposure to one or more of the following: Directly experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event Learning that a tragic event occurred to a close friend/family member Being constantly exposed to extreme details of the event (smell, sight, etc.)

Symptoms of PTSD Re-experiencing the event Avoiding certain situations that may bring back memories of the event negative changes in beliefs and feelings hyper arousal nightmares flashbacks Avoiding large social settings Trouble sleeping Trouble concentrating Startled easily

Pros and Cons of Drug Therapy The use of antidepressants can be helpful to lessen sadness/depression that comes along with PTSD The use of anti-anxiety meds can reduce symptoms of hyper arousal In some cases PTSD patients may have underlying mental health issues that need to be addressed and certain medications are able to help ease their hidden symptoms All psychiatric medication has potential side effects Nausea, dizziness, insomnia, restlessness, decrease in sex drive, increased anxiety, weight changes, tremors, sweating, sleepiness/fatigue, dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation, blurred vision, skin rashes, change in appetite, rapid heart beat etc. **increase risk of suicide/depression**

Art Therapy Oftentimes individuals with PTSD have difficulty expressing themselves and verbalizing their experiences Art therapy offers a means of expression and communication in an alternative way to traditional treatment methods Art therapy can include but is not limited to: Drawing Painting Music therapy Singing

Art Therapy “Through art, participants were able to express positive feelings, externalize difficult emotions and gain insight into their PTSD symptoms,” Cheryl Miller