To feel fear or distress after a traumatic event is perfectly normal and quite expected. However, if you are experiencing it for an extended amount of time or if your symptoms increase, you may have post traumatic stress. Not everyone develops PTSD. Post traumatic can be experienced by someone of any age. People with PTSD re-experience the event again and again. They may have frightening dreams (night terrors) and memories of the event, feel as though they are reliving experience again (flashbacks), or become upset during anniversaries of the event. After the onset of PTSD, the symptoms usually last for approximately 3 months. Others dealing with PTSD symptoms have long-term effects and can experience it for many years.
Have you experienced any of the following?
Causes:
- War
- Hazardous Occupation
- Bullying
- Assault (Physical, Verbal, Sexual)
- Disasters
- Car or Plane Accidents
- Sudden Emotional Trauma (as in the tragic death of a loved one)
- Childhood Neglect
- Robbery
Do you recognize any of the following?
Symptoms:
- Flashbacks
- Night terrors and sleepless nights
- Anxiety and Panic attacks
- Avoidance of things or places that remind you
- Strong reactions to sight, sound or smell
- Quick to anger or prone to violence
- Irritability
- Depression
- Overwhelming shame, guilt surrounding an event or circumstance
- Alcoholism or Addiction
- Hypervigilance (Continually on ‘high alert’)
If so, what can you do?
Healthy Coping:
- Educate on the subject of PTSD
- Look for a support group of peers
- Relaxation Techniques
- Explore treatment options
Help is available. Reaching out to a support of your peers or a strong social structure is extremely beneficial in combating the effects of post-traumatic stress. There are also many treatment options offered. If you think you have any of the symptoms or have experienced any of the events described, please seek help. You are not alone and there are those that will listen and offer their support without judgment.
