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| Uun Zulfiana, M.Psi, a psychologist and lecturer at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) (Photo: Special) |
Recently, there have been many cases of violence, harassment, rape, and so on. This has resulted in victims experiencing trauma related to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to Uun Zulfiana, M.Psi, a psychologist and lecturer at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), PTSD is a fairly extreme mental disorder. The cause is significant trauma, not just minor stressors or problems.
"However, someone cannot be said to suffer from PTSD unless they meet its symptoms and experience them consistently for one month or more," said Uun, her nickname.
Four categories of symptoms experienced by PTSD sufferers will consistently and persistently appear for at least one month or more. First, intrusive symptoms related to traumatic memories and thoughts without awareness. For example, suddenly remembering a traumatic event while being silent. Second, avoidance of cognitive thoughts and behaviors. For example, when a family member or loved one has an accident and dies in the rain while using a particular vehicle. People with PTSD tend to avoid rain and vehicles similar to those in the event.
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Third, negative changes in thoughts or mood. People with PTSD will be more easily angered or frightened when recalling something. In extreme cases, they may blame themselves. Lastly, changes in arousal or reactivity such as difficulty concentrating, startle responses, difficulty sleeping, and so on.
"Of course, mental disorders like PTSD can arise due to causes. The main cause is traumatic events, whether experienced personally or witnessed by others and impacting the individual," she explained.
PTSD can worsen if compounded by risk factors. For example, lack of social support, a history of previous trauma and mental illness, and substance use. Once the cause is known, the next step is intervention or treatment.
The treatment that must be done is through psychotherapy with a psychiatrist using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This involves changing thought patterns and applying them to behavior. Exposure therapy can also be used, which is a behavioral therapy where the subject is directly or gradually exposed to their fears and traumas.
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After the patient receives treatment and is declared an ex-patient, several things need to be done to prevent symptoms from recurring. First, there must be external motivation, such as a supporting system of close people who understand the ex-patient's condition. When some situations or indications lead to trauma, their close ones must accompany them to prevent them from feeling alone. Second, the ex-patient must practice vigilance, such as training awareness of themselves when feeling fearful of their trauma. That's where they are trained not to be easily influenced by their fears.
"Lastly, and importantly, patients or ex-patients must stay away from alcohol and addictive substances," she concluded. (dit/wil/fajr)
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