It is difficult to see a loved one struggle with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). We can feel helpless and at a loss as to how to lend support. To effectively assist someone with PTSD, it is important to understand what it is. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition causing extreme fear or distress. This is a result of exposure to a traumatic event. PTSD can occur quickly, within a short time after someone experiences a traumatic event, or it can take months or years to appear.
Signs of PTSD can differ from one person to the next. Knowing how to recognize signs of PTSD is an important first step to helping your loved one. Symptoms may vary. Some of the signs of PTSD may include:
▪ Frequent nightmares or reliving traumatic events
▪ Angry outbursts or irritability that seem disproportionate to the situation
▪ Feeling unsafe or fear when there isn’t a danger or threat
▪ Emotional numbness or a disconnection from people
▪ Problems sleeping, whether it is difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
▪ Anxiety
▪ Depression
▪ Suicidal thoughts
It can feel overwhelming when a loved one has PTSD. Show that you care and support them by listening without pressuring the person to share if they are not ready. Talking about it can be difficult and may worsen symptoms. Be a patient and reliable person in their life. When your loved one is ready to talk, listen with respect. Do not judge. Discuss and learn about triggers and find ways to help your loved one avoid them.
When your loved one is ready, resources are available. Dark Guardian lists some of them at https://www.darkguardian.org/resources.
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