Understanding PTSD: Symptoms, Triggers, and Treatment Options

Understanding PTSD: Symptoms, Triggers, and Treatment Options

Trauma leaves a mark—and for some, its effects linger long after the event is over. That’s the reality of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) a mental health condition that can impact everyday life in ways that are deeply disruptive but often misunderstood.

At Rivendell Health, we help adults and older teens (18+, case by case) navigate the lasting impact of trauma. With the right support, PTSD is treatable, and healing is possible.

What Is PTSD?

PTSD can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as:

  • Assault or abuse
  • Military combat
  • Serious accidents
  • Natural disasters
  • Sudden loss of a loved one

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. But when trauma interferes with your daily life for weeks or months, it’s time to seek help.

Understanding PTSD: Symptoms, Triggers, and Treatment Options

Common Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms can vary, but they generally fall into four main categories:

1. Intrusive Thoughts

  • Flashbacks of the traumatic event
  • Nightmares
  • Distressing, involuntary memories

2. Avoidance

  • Avoiding people, places, or situations that are reminders of the trauma
  • Refusing to talk or think about what happened

3. Negative Thoughts or Mood

  • Feeling numb, hopeless, or detached
  • Memory loss related to the trauma
  • Guilt or shame

4. Increased Reactivity

  • Being easily startled or constantly on edge
  • Irritability or angry outbursts
  • Trouble sleeping or concentrating

Symptoms can appear soon after the trauma—or may not surface until months or years later.

Common PTSD Triggers

Triggers are sensory or emotional cues that remind someone of their trauma and can bring on a PTSD response.

Common triggers include:

  • Loud noises or crowded environments
  • Certain smells, sights, or places
  • Anniversaries of the event
  • Media coverage of similar events
  • Physical touch or interactions that feel unsafe

Identifying personal triggers is an important part of treatment and recovery.

How PTSD Affects Daily Life

PTSD isn’t just “bad memories.” It can impact:

  • Relationships
  • Work or school performance
  • Physical health
  • Emotional well-being

Without treatment, PTSD can lead to other mental health challenges, including depression, substance use, or panic disorders.

PTSD Treatment Options at Rivendell Health

Outpatient care offers a powerful path to healing—especially for those who are ready to address trauma but don’t need hospitalization.

At Rivendell Health, we offer:

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Our therapists use evidence-based approaches such as:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
  • Mindfulness-based stress reduction

Psychiatric Support

Our team can evaluate the need for medication management to reduce symptoms like anxiety, panic, or insomnia.

Personalized Care Plans

Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific trauma, symptoms, and goals.

We work with adults and select teens age 18 and up on a case-by-case basis, ensuring the care we provide is developmentally and emotionally appropriate.

When to Seek Help

You don’t have to wait for a crisis to get support. Consider reaching out if you or someone you love is:

  • Struggling to manage daily life due to trauma
  • Reliving painful memories or avoiding life to stay “safe”
  • Feeling numb, angry, or emotionally overwhelmed
  • Using substances to cope
  • Ready to talk, process, and heal

Begin Healing with Rivendell Health

Trauma may be part of your story, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With the right tools and support, you can take back control of your life.

Our outpatient mental health services in Colorado Springs are designed to meet you where you are—with compassion, professionalism, and care.

 Contact us today to schedule a confidential assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PTSD only for veterans or first responders?

No. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced trauma—regardless of age, profession, or background.

Can PTSD go away on its own?

Some people improve over time, but many need professional treatment to fully recover. Without help, symptoms can worsen or last for years.

Do you treat teens with PTSD?

We provide outpatient mental health treatment for teens age 18+, on a case-by-case basis.

Get A Consultation

Rivendell Health gave me my life back. Highly recommend, everyone should see them.
Louis R.
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