304 | Death Wish or Self Medication: Risk Taking Behaviors as Expression of Underlying Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

According to current research approximately 70% of individuals will experience trauma, with 10-20% developing long-term symptoms of PTSD, including negative self-perception, hypervigilance, sleep disturbances, irritability, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Suicidal behaviors may manifest through active or passive suicide attempts, or through high-risk activities with potential for harm, such as eating disorders, extreme exercise, reckless driving, substance use, and risky relationships. In some cases, these behaviors are seen as adaptive coping mechanisms or attempts to feel alive and in control. While certain risk-taking behaviors may be valued in professions like first responders, they can also endanger others. This presentation, geared towards psychologists and licensed mental health professionals working with clients, will focus on recognizing these risk-taking behaviors, understanding their psychological and physiological underpinnings, and developing strategies for addressing them through workplace and family interventions, as well as reducing enabling behaviors.