Recognize and Treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
On June 27, the world commemorates Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Day.
It is a day to recognize the devastating consequences of post-traumatic stress on people who are impacted.
Although PTSD is becoming more prevalent, it is not widely recognized by the general public. We frequently identify PTSD with returning troops or those who have endured years living in a warzone.
However, every stressful incident has the potential to result in PTSD. According to recent estimates, around 800,000 Australians live with PTSD, making it the country's second most prevalent mental disease.
The good news is that with the right combination of medication and counseling, PTSD can be effectively treated. What is critical, however, is early identification of PTSD; the longer the disease is left untreated, the more difficult it can be to break the painful patterns and begin to heal.
Additionally, PTSD can have a significant influence on familial and intimate relationships. Understanding PTSD can aid in the improvement of relationships with those who suffer from it.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an acronym for post-traumatic stress disorder. The disease might develop as a result of significant trauma. The trauma might be triggered by a single occurrence, such as
an automobile accident,
a violent weather event, such as a blaze
or affront
PTSD can also develop in the aftermath of a long-term situation, such as
Child maltreatment or neglect
Domestic violence
Living in a conflict zone
Sufferers may experience symptoms such as insomnia, flashbacks, and emotional numbing (an inability to feel positive emotions).
These symptoms can be difficult for partners and family members to deal with. If a spouse frequently awakens from nightmares or night terrors, neither individual is likely to obtain a restful night's sleep. Emotional numbing can create the illusion that a spouse is not desired or cared for.
Undiagnosed or untreated PTSD patients may also exhibit aggressive outbursts or threatening conduct.
Recognizing PTSD and determining when to seek help can aid in the development of supportive relationships.
It's Less Terrifying When You Understand What's Going On
PTSD's symptoms — nightmares, depression, furious outbursts, flashbacks, and isolation – can be challenging to manage. You may like to assist your partner but are unsure how. It may even appear as though your efforts to assist – such as encouraging someone to get out and do something they used to enjoy – are futile.
Once a diagnosis of PTSD is made, you will at least understand what is going on. You can encourage and assist your partner during the therapy process. While a solid support network of friends and family members can help manage PTSD, the symptoms frequently drive people away.
In addition to one-on-one treatment, family therapy may be an approach for improving family connections.
Family Therapy May Be Beneficial for Issues Other Than PTSD Symptoms
Family therapy is frequently centered on how to best support an individual suffering from PTSD through the establishment of positive family behaviors. Therapy can assist participants in comprehending why someone behaves in a way that is inconsistent with their nature.
PTSD frequently wrecks havoc on family dynamics. Individuals develop a habit of tiptoeing around in order to avoid triggering rage, flashbacks, or melancholy. Family counseling can assist partners and children in determining what constitutes – and does not constitute – their duty.
Undiagnosed PTSD Can Affect Children Especially
We frequently consider the impact of PTSD on both the individual and their relationship. Children, however, can be impacted in families where someone has undiagnosed or mismanaged PTSD.
Adults may believe they are safeguarding children, but youngsters are often more aware than we believe. They may be perplexed as to why their parent suddenly withdraws, then becomes angry, then fatigued, and then becomes angry again. Without an explanation, kids may believe that they are to blame.
Children who grow up in unsafe environments or who feel disproportionately responsible for what happens around them are at an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders throughout their lives. Treatment and management of PTSD are critical for the family's health.
Diagnosis Can Assist You in Recognizing When You Need Breaks
One severe issue that might arise in partnerships involving someone who has PTSD is that the caregiver can become overwhelmed by the task of caring for their struggling spouse. With a PTSD diagnosis, you may realize that you cannot treat another person's mental condition. You can begin reaching out to other family members or loved ones for support or opportunity to rest and recharge away from home.
How Do You Obtain Assistance?
If you are having difficulty healing from a trauma, speak with a health expert who can assist you in diagnosing and treating any difficulties.
If you are a partner of someone who is struggling, you are not required to wait for their diagnosis before seeking assistance for yourself. Indeed, seeking out your own mental health care can assist you in maintaining your boundaries and avoiding burnout. If you have children, this may be the best approach for you and your partner to maintain a healthy marital balance.