Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Journey to Healing

05 Jul Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Journey to Healing

From the cashier at the grocery store, to the worker at your local post office, or the car mechanic you see on a regular basis–everyday people living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are all around us. According to the National Center for PTSD an estimated 5% of adults in the United States, or 13 million people, are currently living with the condition. That includes many American military veterans. An estimated 7% of veterans will experience some form of PTSD in their lifetimes.

For these individuals, their scars may be invisible, but they are no less traumatic. That’s why talking about, understanding, and breaking the stigma surrounding PTSD is so important. The emotional scars and daily battles of PTSD can be difficult to endure, but support from the community can make a world of difference. That’s why it’s critical to explore how healing from PTSD is possible. Let’s dive in.

The Basics

PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can manifest in many ways from feelings of anxiety and stress to flashbacks, nightmares and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. For veterans, these symptoms are often exacerbated by the experiences of war, taking an extreme toll on their mental health and daily lives.

Recognizing the Symptoms

While all survivors react differently, there are a few common symptoms of PTSD:

• Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event.
• Avoidance: Avoiding places, activities, or people that trigger unwanted memories of the incident or trauma the victim experienced.
• Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Negative thoughts about oneself or the world, hopelessness, and difficulty maintaining close relationships.
• Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Being easily startled, feeling tense or on guard, and experiencing overwhelming guilt or shame.

How You Can Help

Many people living with PTSD struggle to seek help due to stigma, pride, or even a lack of understanding of their condition and what they are experiencing. A lot of people simply do not realize they are living with a mental health condition that can be helped. That’s why it’s vital for friends, family, and communities to reach out and offer support.

1. Open Communication: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for loved ones who you suspect may be experiencing trauma. Be patient, encourage them to speak and provide a non-judgmental listening ear. Listening without offering unsolicited advice is so important and can lead to more open conversations, and ultimately help the person to seek more help.
2. Educate Yourself: Understanding PTSD and its effects can help you offer more effective support. Learn about the condition through reputable sources, such as the National Center for PTSD or the Department of Veterans Affairs.
3. Encourage Professional Help: Gently encourage loved ones who you see suffering to seek professional help. Therapy, counseling, and support groups can offer significant benefits.

Supporting Veterans with PTSD

Veterans often face unique challenges in dealing with PTSD. The military culture of toughness and resilience can sometimes hinder them from seeking the help they need. However, the support of family and friends, along with community support can make a significant difference.

• Peer Support: Connecting veterans with peers who have gone through similar experiences can provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding.
• Veteran Organizations: Encourage participation in veteran organizations that offer resources and support specifically tailored to their needs.
• Therapeutic Activities: Suggest activities that can help reduce stress and anxiety, such as yoga, meditation, and outdoor activities like hiking or fishing.

Nonprofits’ Role in Supporting Those Living with PTSD

Nonprofits play a crucial role in providing supporting anyone living with PTSD. Here are some ways they can make a difference:

1. Counseling Services: Nonprofits can offer free or low-cost counseling services to veterans and others suffering from trauma, helping them access the professional help they need without financial barriers.
2. Support Groups: Facilitate the creation of support groups where trauma victims can share their experiences, offer mutual support, and build a community of understanding.
3. Awareness Campaigns: Organize awareness campaigns to educate the public about PTSD, reducing stigma, and encouraging people to seek help.
4. Resource Provision: Ensure that all community members have access to resources when needed including help-lines, educational materials, and information on available services.
5. Recreational Therapy: Provide opportunities for veterans in particular to engage in recreational activities that promote relaxation and mental well-being, such as art therapy, music therapy, and outdoor adventures.
6. Family Support Programs: Offer programs that support the families and friends of those suffering with PTSD helping them understand the condition and how to support their loved ones effectively.
7. Advocacy: Advocate for policies that support mental health and ensure that everyone receives the benefits and care they deserve.

Creating an understanding environment for those with PTSD and their journey towards healing requires compassion, education, and proactive support. Don’t be afraid to reach out to those in your life who you suspect are dealing with trauma, especially veterans.

You can make a difference by being there for them in their recovery, and can help them to feel understood, supported, and empowered to seek the help they need. Remember, healing is a journey, not a destination, and every step taken with support and understanding can lead to a better quality of life for those affected by PTSD.