Reframing PTSD: A Path to Reducing Stigma
Dr. Danish and his team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry often encounter patients grappling with the challenges of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The condition, marked by intense and debilitating symptoms following traumatic events, affects countless individuals, including veterans and civilians alike. The term "disorder" in PTSD has been criticized for its potential to stigmatize those affected, discouraging them from seeking necessary care. Dr. Danish, committed to a holistic and integrative approach, recognizes the importance of language in mental health treatment. By considering PTSD as a "posttraumatic stress injury" (PTSI), patients may feel more empowered to seek help, akin to healing from a physical injury. This perspective aligns with the comprehensive treatment plans at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, which integrate medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to address the multifaceted nature of PTSD.
The Proposal for a Name Change
A group of clinicians, led by Dr. Eugene Lipov, is advocating for the American Psychiatric Association (APA) to change the term PTSD to PTSI. This change aims to reduce the stigma associated with the term "disorder," which many believe hinders individuals from seeking help. The proposal suggests that framing PTSD as an "injury" could make it more relatable and less stigmatizing, encouraging more people to pursue treatment.
Survey Findings
Research indicates strong support for the name change. Approximately two-thirds of respondents in a survey agreed that renaming PTSD to PTSI would reduce stigma. This sentiment was particularly strong among those diagnosed with PTSD, who believe the change would increase their hope of finding a solution. The survey also highlighted that the term "disorder" is viewed as more stigmatizing, potentially deterring individuals from seeking care.
Barriers to Care
The stigma surrounding PTSD is a significant barrier to care. Many individuals, especially those in the military, are reluctant to seek help due to the negative connotations associated with the term "disorder." By reframing PTSD as an injury, it aligns with the biological interventions used in treatment, such as the stellate ganglion block (SGB), which has shown promise in alleviating symptoms.
The APA's Response
Despite the advocacy efforts, the APA's DSM-5-TR Steering Committee rejected the proposed name change, citing a lack of convincing evidence. The committee emphasized that the concept of "disorder" is integral to distinguishing normal stress reactions from clinical conditions. Nonetheless, proponents like Dr. Lipov remains steadfast in their efforts, believing that reducing stigma is crucial for improving care and outcomes for those affected by PTSD.
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and his Team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we take pride in our ability to practice the most subtle nuances of psychiatry, which is an inherently subjective field full of misdiagnoses and lazy and inaccurate assessment techniques. We want to provide the level of care we would want for our own family members. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for PTSD or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
For more on this topic and related subjects, check out these blogs by Dr. Danish:
This set of blogs looks at Ketamine and the many symptoms it can benefit, including PTSD.
This set of blogs looks at TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, and the many conditions it can treat (including PTSD).
Sources:
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/ptsd-needs-new-name-experts-say-heres-why-2024a1000ey2
https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/reporting-on-mental-health-conditions
