PTSD: Support Starts With Understanding 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event. It causes nightmares, flashbacks, irritability, outbursts, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety.


The Covid-19 pandemic allowed people to become more aware of other mental health conditions. Although some may have heard of PTSD, there are still a lot of misconceptions about the disorder. The belief that PTSD is only caused by ‘dwelling’ too much on the past or being unable to ‘move on’ oversimplifies the experiences of those with PTSD.

However, PTSD can happen to anyone at any point in their lives. The World Health Organization reported that 70 percent of the global population experiences traumatic events during their lifetime, and a rate of 3.9 percent suffer from PTSD worldwide.

As we celebrate PTSD Awareness Day on July 27, let’s create a more compassionate and supportive environment by learning more about the disorder.

What causes PTSD?

Events that may trigger PTSD include wars, sexual and domestic abuse, natural disasters, the death of a loved one, crimes, and accidents.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Negative changes in mood

The person starts to withdraw from the people around them. They can have sudden outbursts and become reckless or destructive. They may begin to isolate themselves as they feel negative emotions such as fear, anger, or guilt.

Flashbacks

The person re-experiences the traumatic event they have encountered. This can be triggered by situations, words, or objects associated with the experienced event.

This is also the reason why they have avoidant behaviors to keep away from sudden triggers.

Changes in physical reactions

The person can become hyper-vigilant, which can cause insomnia. They experience difficulty concentrating.

Other signs and behaviors of someone who has PTSD may find it hard to take care of themselves, keep a job, cope with changes, and maintain their social lives.

How can you help your loved ones with PTSD?

This disorder can also be challenging for family and friends to understand. However, support can start by listening and asking. Make them feel that you are interested in what they have to say without assumptions and judgments.

Observing and learning about their triggers can help you avoid situations that can make them feel uneasy.

Be patient and encourage them to seek treatment. There are numerous successful treatments for PTSD, which include self-help and therapy.

Help them find support by including other family members and friends. Look for communities or support groups that will allow the person to meet people of the same condition.

- Chaya Marquez