How PTSD Progresses With Age: 3 Ways to Recognize It to Start Anew and Feeling Brand New-- Medical experts refer to the phenomenon of overnight aging as Marie Antoinette Syndrome. However, this bizarre condition only scratches the surface of chronic psychological stress and its relationship with accelerated aging.
The progression of PTSD with age is known in medical circles as Marie Antoinette Syndrome, a term used to describe the phenomenon of overnight aging. However, this unusual condition merely touches upon the broader impact of chronic psychological stress and its connection to accelerated aging.
The progression of PTSD with age is commonly referred to as Marie Antoinette Syndrome in medical circles. However, this term only begins to address the complex relationship between chronic psychological stress and accelerated aging.
Chronic psychological stress leading to mental disorders is often linked to the early onset of age-related disease or premature death. But what about age affecting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Let's explore the science behind these concepts.
A 2021 study followed 324 individuals who served as responders to the World Trade Center attack and examined their RNA-Seq data. Mental health professionals concluded that the responders diagnosed with PTSD had accelerated methylation or transcriptional aging (p = 0.0077). In simpler words, an unresolved traumatic event can result in a decline in cellular function.
Another 2018 study supports this concept. It examined the cross-sectional association of PTSD with telomere length in women exposed to traumatic events common in civilian life. The conclusion indicated that the subjects who faced traumas have shorter telomere length, meaning their cells age more rapidly than those without the mental health disorder.
While there is still more research to be done on the aggravating effect of psychological trauma on aging and cognitive effects, there are existing studies that already prove a connection. In these cases, the common subjects are military veterans.
Some practices, encounters, and unfortunate circumstances that happen as we age can also amplify PTSD symptoms. These risk factors include:
The same can be said for major life changes like the following:
The evidence above further establishes scientific findings that there is a great correlation between physical health and mental health. Whichever comes first, the manifestations should be addressed with proper treatment approaches.
Specifically for posttraumatic stress disorder, evidence-based treatments like exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy can be efficient. These treatments can help older adults struggling with PTSD and younger adults aiming to overcome traumatic experiences and go through the process of normal aging.
If you're looking for a trusted trauma psychiatrist for comprehensive mental health treatment, reach out to Luminous Vitality Behavioral Health. We provide geriatric psychiatry services in the form of telehealth and in-person consultations. Book an appointment with us today!