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Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health issue that impacts millions, yet it is frequently misinterpreted. This condition can arise following the experience or observation of a distressing event. It’s normal to feel scared during and after such incidents; however, individuals with PTSD suffer from overwhelming thoughts and emotions related to the trauma long after the event has ended. While symptoms generally manifest within three months of the trauma, they may also surface years later. For a PTSD diagnosis, these symptoms must persist for over a month and hinder daily life.
Identifying PTSD Symptoms
As noted by the National Institute of Mental Health, typical symptoms of PTSD include:
Avoidance Symptoms:
- Steering clear of places, activities, or things that trigger memories of the traumatic event.
- Avoiding everyday activities related to the trauma, like refraining from driving after a significant car accident.
Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms:
- Struggling to focus.
- Feeling excessively alert, anxious, or tense.
- Experiencing difficulties in falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Engaging in hazardous activities.
Cognitive and Mood Symptoms:
- Having trouble recalling important aspects of the traumatic incident.
- Experiencing challenges in feeling positive emotions like joy or satisfaction.
- Constantly feeling negative emotions like anger, guilt, fear, or shame.
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- Misguided beliefs about the event that lead to feelings of guilt
- Diminished pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- A sense of emotional detachment or numbness towards others
Symptoms of Re-Experiencing
- Flashbacks of the distressing event, often paired with physical reactions like sweating or a racing heart
- Persistent dreams or recollections connected to the traumatic experience
- Physical indicators of stress, such as panic attacks, trouble breathing, or exhaustion
Assisting Someone with PTSD
Inform Yourself: Understanding PTSD can help you empathize better with what your loved one is experiencing. Being aware of the causes and symptoms is essential.
Show Patience and Compassion: The healing journey from trauma isn’t straightforward. Be patient and avoid taking their symptoms personally. Allow them to express themselves when they are ready, and refrain from pressuring them for details too early.
Foster a Safe Environment: Establishing routines, stability, and a peaceful setting can help someone with PTSD feel at ease. Reducing stress levels can promote a greater sense of calm.
Promote Professional Assistance: Encourage your loved one to seek professional help if they haven’t already. PTSD symptoms can be intricate but can significantly improve with the right healthcare providers, therapists, and support networks.
PTSD and Substance Use Disorders (SUD)
A significant number of people with PTSD also face challenges with SUD. Some may resort to substances as a way to numb the distress or anxiety linked to their PTSD symptoms. However, this practice tends to exacerbate the issues and introduce further physical and emotional health concerns. To effectively treat the simultaneous presence of PTSD and SUD, both disorders need to be managed together for a successful recovery.
Help is Accessible
At Gateway Foundation, we recognize the complicated connection between trauma and substance use. With our trauma-informed care methodology, we ensure that individuals receive compassionate, evidence-based treatment for both PTSD and substance use disorders. Recovery is achievable for everyone with the right support.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with a substance use or mental health issue, please call 877-505-HOPE.
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