Chronic stress disorder affects more and more people every year, but there is hope. The proper treatment can help those suffering from chronic stress disorder manage their symptoms and lead healthier lives. You don’t need to resort to searching the phrase “chronic stress disorder treatment near me” online to find professional help. Instead, call 844.334.4727 to speak with someone from the knowledgeable and compassionate team at Springfield Wellness Center about this mental health condition and what we do to help those struggling with it.
What Is Chronic Stress Disorder?
Chronic stress disorder (CSD) occurs when someone has been exposed to a traumatic event or multiple events over an extended period. It can cause feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, and panic. In contrast, any of the following can cause chronic stress:
- Being the victim of abuse
- Dealing with chronic medical issues
- Experiencing long-term financial stress
- Experiencing or witnessing a stressful event, such as a natural disaster or war
- Having a high-pressure job
- Living in an unsafe or unpredictable environment
CSD has been around for centuries, but it was not until recently that the condition was formally recognized as a mental health issue. CSD is now classified as an anxiety disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is thought to be caused by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
Differences Between CSD and PTSD
CSD is different from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in that traumatic events happen over a long period rather than all at once. PTSD is undoubtedly more well-known, if only due to its prevalence in combat-related scenarios. In contrast, CSD is most often caused by cumulative stress from long-term exposure to traumatic events.
Signs of Chronic Stress Disorder
The signs of chronic stress disorder can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include the following:
- Avoiding things that remind you of the traumatic event
- Being easily startled
- Changes in mood, such as sadness or hopelessness
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feeling isolated
- Feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks
- Having trouble with concentration or memory
- Increased irritability or anger outbursts
- Physical aches and pains
Suppose you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms for an extended period after a traumatic experience. In that case, it could indicate that you need to seek help for chronic stress disorder.
What to Expect from Chronic Stress Disorder Treatment
Treatment for CSD usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy focuses on helping individuals understand how their thoughts affect their behavior and then change their behaviors accordingly. CBT helps people learn how to identify their thoughts better so they can create positive coping strategies for managing their emotions.
Other types of therapies used in CSD treatment may include psychodynamic therapy, which looks at underlying issues causing distress, and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), which uses eye movements to help reduce symptoms associated with PTSD. Medication may also be prescribed depending on the individual’s needs. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as exercise and nutrition are often recommended as part of CSD treatment plans to improve overall well-being.
At Springfield Wellness Center, we specialize in helping those with chronic stress disorder manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team of professionals understands the unique needs of each individual, and we take a holistic approach to treatment that focuses on the mind, body, and spirit. We also offer follow-up care to ensure that our patients have access to ongoing support even after they complete treatment.
Find Chronic Stress Disorder Treatment in Louisiana at Springfield Wellness Center
Chronic stress disorder can significantly impact daily life if left untreated—but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right treatment plans tailored specifically to each affected patient’s needs, relief from CSD symptoms and a healthier life are possible. Contact Springfield Wellness Center today at 844.334.4727 to learn more about our chronic stress disorder treatment program in Louisiana.