Supporters of Survivors with PTSD need support too

With a significant number of survivors who experience a variety of trauma in their lives, most people have some symptoms for a short while. However, some survivors of trauma go on to develop Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD acccording to the National Center for PTSD, have 4 major areas:

Reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms): You may have bad memories or nightmares. You even may feel like you're going through the event again. This is called a flashback.

Avoiding situations that remind you of the event: You may try to avoid situations or people that trigger memories of the traumatic event. You may even avoid talking or thinking about the event.

Negative changes in beliefs and feelings: The way you think about yourself and others may change because of the trauma. You may feel fear, guilt, or shame. Or, you may not be interested in activities you used to enjoy. This is another way to avoid memories.

Feeling keyed up (also called hyperarousal): You may be jittery, or always alert and on the lookout for danger. Or, you may have trouble concentrating or sleeping. This is known as hyperarousal.

Other common symptoms of PTSD are:

Feelings of hopelessness, shame, or despair

Depression or anxiety

Drinking or drug problems

Physical symptoms or chronic pain

Employment problems

Relationship problems, including divorce

As a friend or family member who wants to support the one you love and care about with PTSD, what concerns do you have? Do you want to learn more about how to be supportive, as well as how to use good self-care for yourself?

Please share here if you're comfortable, or if not, please contact a listener who identifies that they can help with Traumatic Experiences or PTSD where you can chat one on one.