Trauma/PTSD
After experiencing a trauma or a life-threatening event, it is common to have reactions such as upsetting memories of the event, increased jumpiness, or trouble sleeping. However, if these reactions do not go away or if they get worse, you may have Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Whether or not you develop PTSD depends on many things, including:
- How intense the trauma was or how long it lasted
- If you were injured or lost someone important to you
- How close you were to the event
- How strong your reaction was
- How much you felt in control of events
- How much help and support you received after the event
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms usually start soon after the traumatic event, but they may not appear until months or years later. They also may come and go over many years. If the symptoms last longer than four weeks, cause you great distress, or interfere with your work or home life, you might have PTSD. There are four types of symptoms, including:
This is called a flashback.
thinking about the event.
shame. Or, you may not be interested in activities that you used to enjoy. This is another way to avoid
memories.
or sleeping. This is known as hyperarousal.
- Reliving the event
This is called a flashback.
- Avoiding situations that remind you of the event
thinking about the event.
- Negative changes in beliefs and feelings
shame. Or, you may not be interested in activities that you used to enjoy. This is another way to avoid
memories.
- Feeling keyed up (also called hyperarousal)
or sleeping. This is known as hyperarousal.
Helping a Family Member, Friend, or Loved One with PTSD
If someone you love has experienced a traumatic event, you may be focused on the joy of having him/her safe. However, things may not be as they used to be. Your loved one may be easily angered, always on edge, and shows little or no interest in things he or she once enjoyed doing, like playing with his or her kids, fishing, or dancing. This might have you feeling scared, angry, or frustrated with your loved one or yourself. Though these things might have you feeling alone, many people experience these difficulties after a traumatic event. These are common signs of PTSD and it is important to educate yourself about the disorder.
Like many disorders, PTSD is not a sign of weakness and it can be treated. However, if your loved one does not wish to receive treatment, or even if they are receiving treatment, there are things you can do to help make things easier and work on improving their symptoms. Below are some tips for helping a loved one with PTSD.
As previously stated, your loved one may not want your help. If this happens, keep in mind that withdrawal can be a symptom of PTSD. Give your loved one space, but tell him or her that you will always be ready to help when they need it.
Dr. Kroll specializes in the treatment of trauma. For more information, contact Dr. Kroll or visit http://www.ptsd.va.gov/
Like many disorders, PTSD is not a sign of weakness and it can be treated. However, if your loved one does not wish to receive treatment, or even if they are receiving treatment, there are things you can do to help make things easier and work on improving their symptoms. Below are some tips for helping a loved one with PTSD.
- Understand that they might get angry easily, not be interested in activities they once enjoyed, or avoid places that trigger flashbacks and try not to take it personally when these things happen.
- Know that these changes can be stressful for everyone. It is normal to feel angry, frustrated, and scared. Try not to feel guilty or ashamed about these feelings.
- Make sure to take care of yourself as well as your loved one. If you fail to treat yourself well, your stress levels will rise and you are likely to get sick or have a harder time keeping your patience and understanding regarding the difficulties faced by your loved one.
- Learn as much as you can about PTSD. Knowing about how PTSD affects people may help you better understand what your loved one is going through and how to behave regarding problems caused by PTSD.
- Offer to go to doctor visits with your loved one. You can help keep track of medicine and therapy, and you can be there for support.
- Tell your loved one you want to listen and that you also understand if he or she doesn't feel like talking.
- Plan family activities together, like having dinner or going to a movie.
- Participate in exercise together. It is important for your health and helps clear your mind.
- Encourage contact with family and close friends. A support system will help your loved one get through difficult changes and stressful times.
As previously stated, your loved one may not want your help. If this happens, keep in mind that withdrawal can be a symptom of PTSD. Give your loved one space, but tell him or her that you will always be ready to help when they need it.
Dr. Kroll specializes in the treatment of trauma. For more information, contact Dr. Kroll or visit http://www.ptsd.va.gov/
This site is designed for informational purposes only. It does not render psychological services and is not intended to be a substitute for psychological services. If you are experiencing a medical or psychological emergency, you should immediately call 911 or visit your local emergency room. For more information see the full disclaimer.