Trauma And Stressor Related Disorders Specialist

Psychiatrist located in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC

For many people, traumatic events or highly stressful situations can have a lingering effect on mental health. At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC. Dr. Ifeanyi Olele offers innovative talk therapy and other treatment options to address conditions, like PTSD and other stressor-related or trauma-induced disorders. Dr. Olele customizes a treatment plan for your specific needs to help reduce the severity of your symptoms and enhance the overall quality of your life. Schedule an in-office consultation or a telemedicine visit!

Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders Q & A

What are trauma-related and stressor-related disorders?

There are several psychiatric disorders that directly relate to trauma and stress. One of the most common of these conditions is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that can develop after you experience a shocking, dangerous, or frightening event. This disorder often involves feelings of fear or anxiousness, even when there’s no danger present.

Other common disorders relating to stress or trauma include:

Acute stress disorder
Adjustment disorder
Reactive attachment disorder
Social engagement disorder

There are also a variety of related trauma disorders, which are characterized by their specific symptoms.

What are the symptoms of a trauma-induced or stressor-related disorder?

A primary symptom of many traumatic or stress-related disorders is having involuntary, intrusive thoughts that may trigger flashbacks, causing you to essentially relive the distressing event over and over.

Other symptoms that are common with these types of disorders include:

Anxiety
Depression
Bad dreams or night terrors
Avoiding people, places, or situations

These symptoms can also develop into other mental health conditions, such as personality, mood, and behavior disorders.

When should I seek treatment for this type of disorder?

Not all traumatic experiences result in the development of a disorder. Typically, if you go through a trauma or stressful event, indications of a potential problem develop within three months of the incident. However, everyone reacts differently, and Dr. Olele can discuss the specifics of your situation during a consultation.

If your symptoms last longer than a month and become severe enough that they disrupt your life, employment, or relationships, you should seek an appointment to explore your options for treatment.

What treatment options are available for trauma-induced or stressor-related disorders?

Based on your symptoms and goals for treatment, Dr. Olele may recommend regular talk therapy to help you understand your trauma or stress triggers. He may suggest frequent counseling sessions in the initial stages of treatment to encourage lifestyle and behavioral changes that can effectively reduce the severity and frequency of your symptoms.

In some cases, exposure therapy may be necessary to help you learn how to face your fears and manage your emotions directly relating to the trauma.

Medications, such as antidepressants, may be useful for a period of time to help reduce feelings of uncontrolled anxiety, depression, or disconnection from your family, friends, and favorite activities.

Learn more about treatment options for trauma-related and stressor-related disorders by scheduling an appointment online or by phone with Dr. Olele.

If you’re outside of Virginia, be sure to ask about available telepsychiatry services.