Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Cases of post-traumatic stress disorder

Introduction
Severe anxiety, flashbacks and nightmares signify an apparent case of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A change in the usual behavioral pattern implies underlying problems about an individual’s perspective on life. Therefore, such instances demand a therapeutic approach, which could involve psychotropic medication. In essence, the paper elite essay delves into discussing PTSD patient behavioral changes, particularly aligning to DSM-5, therapeutic approaches, appropriateness of psychotropic medication and the expected outcomes. Importantly, the expected outcomes will be drawn from evidence-based literature. The severity of PTSD means that patients should undergo a rigorous therapeutic process coupled with appropriate medication.
Patient Observations
Patients suffering from PTSD exhibit outright observations, which help in clarifying the magnitude of their problem. Such observations are associated with behavioral changes. In the case study, William displays poor judgment due to his inability to pay for his mortgage, thus leading to homelessness. Furthermore, he suffers from memory lapses as indicated by calling Zora simply Z. Roberts et al establishes that anxiety is reflected in the lack of acceptance of one’s situation. For instance, he does not understand that he is suffering from PTSD since he only hears about it from people. Lastly, William’s problems with alcohol is connected to the quest to forget about his past experiences. Essentially, the behavioral changes squarely indicate that the patient is suffering from PTSD.
Alignment with DSM-5 Criteria
Diagnosis of PTSD follows a specific criteria, which offers a primary platform to understand the patient, stressors, therapy and recommended medications. The DSM-5 in the case study reveals, firstly, and underlying stressor. William’s experience in the warfront as a captain in Iraq is an influencing stressor. Secondly, intrusion symptoms include physical reactivity, which can be observed through forgetfulness. Thirdly, avoidance is primarily established by the patient’s over-indulgence in alcohol to a point of losing his job. Fourthly, isolation is clearly revealed, such that patient finds more happiness by pursuing hobbies that give him lone time. Conclusively, such key features as established in the DMS-5 criteria imply PTSD prevalence.
Therapeutic Approaches
Numerous therapeutic approaches can attain significant impact to a patient once properly implemented. In line with the patient situation, cognitive processing therapy (CPT) will suit the patient, since it will establish the fundamental impact of the stressor. This approach will be undertaken for 60-90 minutes for 12 weeks. Secondly, prolonged exposure therapy will factor anxiety as revealed in the patient. Apparently, William will recount the events leading to his trauma while the therapist records the sessions. The sessions will be a 90 minute each running for at least one month. William will then listen to it. The two approaches focus on an in-depth understanding of the stressor.
Psychotropic Medications
Medication is crucial in overcoming depression, anxiety and flashbacks, which constitute effects of PTSD. In William’s case, psychotropic medication will be vital in battling alcoholism, forgetfulness and anxiety in general, which is negating his life. For instance, antidepressants such as citalopram and Paxil will be effective in reducing or eliminating events during William’s experience in Iraq. Secondly, the negative thought process exhibited by serotonin norepinephrine due its effect in increasing brain activity.
Outcome and Evidence-based Practice
Cognitive processing therapy achieves patient awareness on the impact of a stressor on amplifying their conditions. In other words, evidence-based practice on this approach connotes to patient understanding better their situation, such that they are receptive to the treatment. Secondly, since prolonged therapy is more individualized, patient response is relatively high. Therefore, both approaches suit William’s case because it offers him more interaction with the therapist while the focus is primarily on the stressors. The evidence-based practice on CPT and prolonged therapy indicates effectiveness under more therapist scrutiny.
Conclusion
Post-traumatic stress disorder demands an immediate and swift action because it threatens the life of a patient. Spending more time with the therapist as advocated for by the prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy are crucial in changing a patient’s thought process. Evidence-based practice indicates that patients are more receptive to individualized approaches, which dwell on the stressors. The patient remains the center of attention during the entire sessions.