Let's Talk: PTSD Awareness

June is PTSD Awareness Month.

Symptoms

Our brains are complex. The way in which our minds work to process feelings, emotions and events is a lot to understand— especially those of the traumatic nature. Mayo Clinic defines post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as, “a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.”

War Veterans

War Veterans

When you think of PTSD, your first thought may be war veterans. According to the National Library of Medicine, anywhere from 20%- 30% of returning war veterans experience PTSD symptoms due to disturbing combat exposure.

The U.S. Department of Affairs explains that military PTSD triggers could also include what the soldiers did in the war, politics surrounding war efforts, terrain in which the war is fought, or the type of enemy soldiers are facing.

Another main reason why PTSD is so common in the military is due to military sexual trauma (MST). Unfortunately, MST is very common within all branches of the military and both men and women suffer from it.

Other Traumatic Events

You don’t have to have been in the military to experience PTSD. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, about 12 million adults in the U.S. have PTSD during a given year and about six percent of the population will have PTSD at some point in their lives.

 According to Mayo Clinic, there are several instances that could trigger PTSD symptoms:

• Childhood physical abuse

• Sexual violence

• Assault

• Being threatened

• Accidents

• Natural disasters

• Robbery

• Kidnapping

• Medical diagnosis

Any kind of life-threatening event can trigger symptoms.

Mayo Clinic goes on to explain that symptoms may start within a month of a traumatic event or not appear for years. PTSD symptoms could cause social, work and relationship issues. Going about day-to-day life may also be extremely difficult. However, symptoms vary may depending on the individual.

Although PTSD isn’t the most common form of mental illness, it’s crucial to understand. You never know who may be dealing with it.

Coping

Like any kind of mental health disorder, there are many ways to cope with PTSD. Helpguide.org lists a few positive ways to do so. Some coping strategies that are proven to help minimize symptoms include:

Strategies

Joining a PTSD support group

Practicing relaxation techniques

Pursuing outdoor activities

Spending time with positive people

Avoiding drugs and alcohol

Exercising

Getting enough sleep

Mental health therapy is also a great option for those dealing with PTSD. Licensed professionals are confidential and are there to help overcome personal battles.

Although Communicare is primarily known for TBI rehabilitation, CMI also specializes in mental health rehabilitation including PTSD. Our mental health therapists are mastered level, highly trained professionals, and no matter what mental challenges are being faced, CMI is here to help.