Anyone can experience post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and recognizing the different types of PTSD will form the basis for successfully diagnosing and treating the condition.
PTSD is brought on by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as rape, sexual assault, the threat of death, severe accident, or even a natural disaster among other stressors.
If left untreated, post-traumatic stress disorder can be incredibly debilitating.
While scientists continue to research the exact cause of PTSD, for some people, their initial stress response to trauma triggers an extreme biological “fight or flight” reaction. This can be so overwhelming that going back to “normal” is extremely difficult.
However, there are variations in our stress responses, so understanding them can lead to better treatment approaches and recovery outcomes for people experiencing PTSD.
What are 5 Types of PTSD?
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports more than 8 million adults suffer from PTSD in the United States, with about 37 percent of those coping with serious disorder-related symptoms.
It is a myth that only soldiers develop PTSD, and it can affect anyone who has been exposed to trauma. Many successful celebrities and famous people with PTSD have shared their stories of recovery to inspire others to seek treatment.
Diagnosing the specific type of PTSD is necessary for identifying the most appropriate form of therapy.
5 Different Types of PTSD
1. Normal Stress Response
A Normal Stress Response is exactly as it sounds – this is a normal stress reaction to trauma before the onset of PTSD, although this type does not always develop into PTSD.
Everyone has a stress response to trauma and human tragedies like the loss of a loved one, chronic illness, or serious injury. When this response occurs, most people will grieve and return to normal with the support of friends and loved ones over the course of several weeks or months.
Individual counseling or group therapy is sometimes recommended, even with a normal stress response, as a way for people to get more perspective and support for what they’re dealing with.
2. Acute Stress Disorder
While not considered full-blown PTSD, an Acute Stress Disorder often develops after exposure to what felt like a life-threatening event.
Natural disasters, serious accidents, or near-death experiences are just a few examples that can bring about this disorder. Left untreated, acute stress can escalate and become PTSD.
Acute Stress Disorder generally requires a more rigorous treatment approach, including individual and group counseling. A psychiatrist may also prescribe medication to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
3. Uncomplicated PTSD
The category of Uncomplicated PTSD uses the world “uncomplicated” because this type of PTSD is connected to one specific traumatic event, as opposed to ongoing trauma or a chronically distressing environment, like a war-torn area or a physically or sexually abusive home.
Uncomplicated PTSD includes painful symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of trauma triggers, mood changes, and depression. Treatment is likely to consist of a combination of therapy and medication.
4. Complex PTSD
Complex PTSD is the opposite of uncomplicated PTSD, and this type of stress response is linked to multiple or ongoing traumatic events.
Domestic abuse, living with community violence, or repeated exposure to war are a few examples that can cause complex PTSD symptoms.
Here, the symptoms are the same as Uncomplicated PTSD, but there is also a web of trauma to get through.
The effects of childhood trauma in adulthood can leave a lasting impression that may endure until the traumatic memories have been resolved through treatment.
People struggling with this condition may have developed personality or dissociative disorders because of their experiences. Substance abuse, aggression, behavioral and emotional issues are also common.
5. Comorbid PTSD
Sometimes referred to as a co-occurring disorder or dual-diagnosis, Comorbid PTSD is the presence of PTSD with another mental health condition, such as a substance use disorder.
Symptoms of each disorder complicate and worsen the symptoms of both conditions. This type of PTSD is incredibly common.
The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs estimates that nearly 45 percent of those with lifetime PTSD also struggle with addiction or a substance use disorder.
Ways of Treating Different Types of PTSD
Getting the right treatment for the different types of PTSD can be crucial for healing.
If a person is diagnosed with uncomplicated PTSD, but is actually dealing with a comorbid condition, it is likely that one or both of their disorders will continue to cause problematic symptoms.
This is especially true when treating a dual diagnosis of PTSD and addiction.
Misusing alcohol or drugs may numb some of the symptoms of PTSD, but it will magnify them over time and make them worse.
PTSD interferes with a person’s impulse control, decision making, and memory functions, making it difficult for them to understand the connection between substance abuse and continued PTSD symptoms.
Treating both conditions individually during the same course of treatment is recommended for successful recovery.
There are different types of therapy for PTSD depending on the causes, symptoms, and each person’s specific needs. Many of them can be combined or used with traditional mental health treatment methods.
Types of Therapy for PTSD
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that was developed to treat adults struggling with PTSD.
It focuses on the disturbing memories as the cause of psychopathology, with the goal of alleviating different types of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
EMDR Therapy uses bilateral stimulation to improve healing by reducing the intensity of traumatic memories.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most popular forms of therapy for a variety of conditions and it analyzes the relationship or connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
CBT teaches coping skills for managing difficult emotions and negative behaviors.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is similar to CBT and can be effective for treating many types of PTSD symptoms and trauma.
With a focus on mindfulness, it can help with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal relationships.
TMS Therapy
TMS Therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a newer treatment method that is FDA approved for treatment-resistant depression but is sometimes used off-label for treating PTSD.
It is a painless, and non-invasive outpatient therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain associated with mood.
Equine Therapy
Equine Therapy, or Equine-Assisted Therapy, has shown to be healing and therapeutic for many different types of mental health conditions, including PTSD.
It reaches patients on an emotional level and works well for grounding the mind and putting a person at peace.
Neurofeedback Therapy
Neurofeedback Therapy is a form of Neurotherapy that is also known as EEG Biofeedback because it measures and analyzes brainwave activity and offers real-time feedback.
It helps train the brain to be more in control of anxiety, depression, and different types of PTSD symptoms.
Seeking Safety
Seeking Safety is an evidence-based treatment modality to reduce trauma symptoms or substance abuse and teaches coping skills for managing PTSD and addiction.
Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing is a body-centered therapy that focuses on physical tension and sensations in the body that are related to trauma.
It focuses on mindful movement and physical awareness to reduce anxiety, depression, and other types of PTSD symptoms.
Prescription Medications
Sometimes prescription medications are helpful for treating PTSD and the FDA has approved Zoloft and Paxil for specific treatment.
Other medications might be used off-label to manage the symptoms of depression or other conditions that coexist with PTSD.
Seeking Treatment
Post-Traumatic Stress can overwhelm a person’s ability to cope with what has happened to them.
The consequences of untreated Acute Stress Disorder or any of the different types of PTSD can be difficult, not just for the person living with trauma, but for family members as well.
Although it may be difficult to ask for help, professional treatment for trauma disorders is often necessary for healing and recovery.
There’s no shame in asking for help and a thorough assessment will identify the best treatment methods for each person’s individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of PTSD are there?
There are nine or more different types of PTSD including subtypes as recognized by the DSM-5 and ICD-11. They are all considered forms of PTSD and the variations will help identify appropriate treatment methods.
1. Normal Stress Response – This is the initial response that may or may not become PTSD.
2. Uncomplicated PTSD – This is the most common type of PTSD and it is associated with one traumatic event.
3. Acute Stress Disorder – ASD symptoms begin within a month after experiencing a traumatic event.
4. Comorbid PTSD – This a form of PTSD combined with substance use or other mental health conditions.
5. Complex PTSD – This type of PTSD may begin in childhood and occurs from continued trauma.
6. Delayed Onset PTSD – Delayed onset appears more than 6 months after the traumatic event.
7. Dissociative PTSD (subtype) – This includes PTSD symptoms combined with the perception of being disconnected from thoughts and feelings.
8. Preschool PTSD (subtype) – This diagnosis is for children 6 years and younger with negative thoughts about a traumatic event.
9. PTSD with Prominent Dissociative Symptoms (subtype) – This is similar to Dissociative PTSD, but the individual does not meet the full criteria.
What type of disorder is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health issue classified as a ‘trauma and stressor-related disorder’ according to the DSM-5.
The formal name, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, includes both ‘trauma’ and ‘stress’ that align with the classification of this form of mental health condition.
What type of doctor can diagnose PTSD?
Several different types of healthcare professionals can diagnose PTSD, although not all types are allowed to prescribe medications.
- Primary Care Physicians
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Licensed Therapists and Counselors (LCSW, LMFT, LPC)
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
Some of these offer treatment therapies, while others will refer patients to a specialized professional best-suited for treating the symptoms.
How can I tell what type of PTSD I have?
The most accurate way to know what type of PTSD you have is to get a proper diagnosis from a qualified medical professional.
A licensed doctor or psychiatrist will review your medical history, symptoms, type and duration of trauma, and have you answer a questionnaire or psychological test.
PTSD symptoms usually fall under the following categories:
- Re-experiencing (nightmares or flashbacks)
- Avoidance (avoiding memories of the traumatic experience)
- Hyperarousal (sleep problems or being easily startled)
- Negative mood and thoughts (shame or guilt)
The causes and duration of trauma will also be considered, such as a single event, prolonged exposure to trauma, substance use, etc.
All of these factors play a role in determining the type of PTSD a person is experiencing.
What medication is prescribed for PTSD?
Several different types of FDA approved medications are effective for treating PTSD symptoms. These include SSRIs like Paroxetine (Paxil) and Sertraline (Zoloft).
Other medications such as Quetiapine (Seroquel), Fluoxetine (Prozac), and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) are not FDA approved for PTSD, but they are sometimes prescribed ‘off-label’ because they have shown to be beneficial.
