Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): From Symptoms to Support

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Understanding the symptoms and how to provide support can make a significant difference to someone living with PTSD.
Understanding PTSD
Symptoms of PTSD can vary in intensity over time and from person to person, but they generally fall into four categories:

1. Intrusive Thoughts: Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event. These can manifest as nightmares or flashbacks.
2. Avoidance: Evading thoughts, feelings, or situations that are reminders of the traumatic event.
3. Negative Thoughts and Feelings: These may include feelings of detachment from others, ongoing fear, guilt, or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
4. Arousal and Reactive Symptoms: These can include irritability, angry outbursts, difficulty sleeping, and being easily startled or feeling on guard.

Supporting Someone with PTSD
Knowing how to support a loved one with PTSD can significantly help their recovery:

1. Educate Yourself: Understanding PTSD can help you be more empathetic and patient.
2. Be a Good Listener: Allow your loved one to express their feelings and thoughts without judgment.
3. Encourage Professional Help: Encourage seeking help from a therapist experienced in trauma and PTSD. They can guide through several therapeutic techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and others, all of which can support recovery.
4. Practice Self-Care: Supporting someone with PTSD can be stressful. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup. Take care of your own mental health as well.

​At FLEX Psychology, our therapists are experienced in trauma and PTSD. They are prepared to provide support and guide through the process of recovery, using a range of therapeutic techniques best suited for the individual's needs.