02/06/2024
JUNE IS PTSD AWARENESS MONTH.
It’s only right that as a sufferer of PTSD myself that I raise some awareness.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event.
The symptoms of PTSD can be grouped into four main categories: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions.
1. Intrusive Memories: This includes recurrent, involuntary memories of the traumatic event, distressing dreams or nightmares related to the event, flashbacks where the person feels like they are reliving the event, and intense psychological or physiological distress when exposed to reminders of the event.
2. Avoidance: Individuals with PTSD often try to avoid anything that reminds them of the traumatic event. They may avoid certain places, activities, or people that trigger memories of the event. They may also avoid talking or thinking about the event.
3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: PTSD can lead to negative changes in a person’s thoughts and mood, lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, and memory problems related to the traumatic event.
4. Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: People with PTSD may experience changes in their physical and emotional reactions. These can include being easily startled, feeling constantly on edge or hypervigilant, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, irritability or angry outbursts, and engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD. The exact causes of PTSD are not fully understood, but factors such as the intensity of the trauma, personal vulnerability, and a lack of support systems may contribute to the development of the disorder.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD it is important to seek help that can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
I wish this had never come to my door. It’s been the toughest thing I’ve personally ever had to deal with and has impacted my life in so many ways. Continued in comments….
