29. Understanding PTSD: Diagnosis, Neurobiology and Treatment

Why does a sound, a smell or a flash of light have the power to pull someone back into the worst moment of their life, years after it happened? In this episode, we explore post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in depth. We cover the ICD-11 diagnostic criteria, the three core symptom clusters, and the neurobiology that explains why PTSD symptoms are so persistent and so difficult to simply talk yourself out of. Topics include re-experiencing, avoidance and hyperarousal, the role of the amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, the paradox of cortisol in PTSD, and evidence-based treatments including trauma focused-CBT, EMDR and pharmacological options. Ideal for MRCPsych Part A revision, psychiatry trainees and anyone working with patients who have experienced trauma. Aligned with the Royal College of Psychiatrists MRCPsych Part A syllabus, paragraph 1.1.9, 3.5.1.13 and 3.9.5. I would love to hear from you! (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2596662/fa...)