Post Traumatic Stress Disorders: A Literature Review

This is a brief summary of the work done by several researchers who have explored the implications of emotional disorders on health and the efficacy of various treatment and management options. Guler Boyraz, J. Brandon Walts, Victoria A. Felix, and Danita D. Wynes, researchers at the Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, have explored the role of coping mechanisms in individuals suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder and how these coping mechanisms have affected physical health. Nitin Kumar Verma and Sanjay Kumar reviewed the role of health and emotions in the promotion of well-being. Benjamin Pollack, M.D., in his research, reviewed the connections between aging and emotional disorders. In this,

These problems may include cardiorespiratory and gastrointestinal problems (Boyraz et al., 2014). Guler Boyraz, J. Brandon Walts, Victoria A. Felix, and Danita D. Wynes, researchers at the Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, suggest coping mechanisms may play a role in the effect of PTSD on physical health. In the study conducted by Guler Boyraz et al., data was collected through an online survey which gathered data on self-reported physical health and questions used to identify the coping mechanism used by the individual. Approximately 6.4% to 6.8% of the general population suffers from PTSD (2014). Aside from the numerous mental health issues associated with PTSD, many physical health issues have been linked to PTSD. Due to this link between physical health and PTSD, it is necessary to understand any factors which may increase the link, such as coping mechanisms. Types of coping mechanisms involved may include; denial, self-distraction, substance abuse, problem-solving, planning, and seeking support. These coping mechanisms may be categorized into two groups. The first group, avoidance may include denial, self-distraction, and substance abuse. The second group, the approach coping methods may include problem-solving, planning, and seeking support. In the survey, Boyraz et al. used the revised version of the Stressful life events screening

Troubles caused by aging are not limited to physical degeneration. Mental health issues concerns, such as loneliness, idleness, helplessness, and hopelessness, may be considered when developing treatment options for aging individuals (1956). In Benjamin Pollack’s article, the impacts of emotional distress due to aging are discussed and management or treatment options are introduced. Difficulties for the elderly, which may cause emotional strife, include the inability to perform ordinary tasks, unwillingness to slow down, and loss of social contacts may cause further degeneration mentally and may impact them physically. Management strategies for retirement coping may include; flexibility in thinking, replacement of physical activities to more manageable activities, and social involvement. “Continuous adjustment and substitution are necessary in accordance with the stern and realistic demands of the environment, culture, and society in which they live” (1956). Engagement in activities can curb the mental health issues surrounding aging. Elderly individuals who engage in creative, recreational, or other activities will improve both physically and mentally. In Pollack’s study, during rehabilitation, chlorpromazine- typically used to treat mental disorders, such as schizophrenia- was added to a rehabilitation program. It was intended to aide elderly individuals,