Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can feel debilitating, and it affects 1 in 11 people at some point during their lifetime. At his practice in Belmont, California, board-certified psychiatrist Michael Lara, MD, diagnoses and treats PTSD to reduce unpleasant symptoms and help you get your life back after a traumatic experience. Call his office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition that causes unpleasant symptoms because of a past traumatic event. Examples include being in a car accident, military combat, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and natural disasters. Treatment with Dr. Lara can reduce unpleasant symptoms and give you the best quality of life possible.
Common symptoms of PTSD include:
When left untreated, PTSD can negatively affect your job, school, interpersonal relationships, and overall quality of life.
Traumatic life events can cause PTSD, but certain factors increase our risk of developing the condition. Examples include lack of social support and having anxiety, depression, or another mental health disorder. A family history of mental health disorders also increases your chance of having PTSD.
Dr. Lara diagnoses PTSD after discussing your symptoms and medical history with you. He completes a psychiatric assessment in which he asks about your past life experiences, lifestyle habits, thoughts, behavior patterns, mood, and more. In addition to determining if you have PTSD, he can diagnose depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
Michael Lara, MD, offers telemedicine services if you’d prefer to speak with him virtually from the comfort of your home or office.
To treat PTSD and reduce its troublesome symptoms, Dr. Lara might prescribe medications or recommend lifestyle changes. He may suggest you try stress-reduction techniques, regular exercise, good nutrition, and more sleep. You should also avoid using addictive substances.
To get treated for PTSD and enjoy life to its fullest, call Michael Lara, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.