PTSD - It’s not just for soldiers

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, isn’t just for soldiers.  I say that because as I’ve worked with civilians over time who did, in fact, struggle with PTSD – I often hear that “it can’t be PTSD, you have to be in the military to get that”.  But let me try to set that record straight.  Any of us can be susceptible to the effects of post-traumatic stress.  It’s a very human, very normal reaction to a horribly abnormal event. 

We see people in all walks of life that struggle with those symptoms.  Everyone from veterans (as you might expect) to police officers, firefighters, and paramedics; from doctors, nurses, to victims of violent crime and abuse.  When horrible things happen, often we may try to put it all behind us, or forget about it and move on.  But, just like that splinter that gets deep in our finger – it will continue to hurt as long as it goes untreated.

Some of the signs of possible PTSD might be nightmares about the event, or thoughts about the event even when you don’t want to think about it.  You may try to avoid situations that might remind you of what happened, or try hard not to think about it.  Maybe you might be on guard all the time, always watchful, or you may get startled easily.  Some folks feel numb or detached from people, activities, or their surroundings.  Some may feel guilty about what happened or can’t stop blaming themselves, or others, for what happened or the results of what happened.

So, let me set that record straight again – you don’t have to have been in the military to struggle with PTSD.  Any of us can be affected. 

 If you think you or someone you know may be showing signs of PTSD, please seriously consider giving me a call here at Total Life Counseling; one of the regions premiere, independent, trauma treatment practices.  I’m here to help.  www.totallifecounselinginc.com  540-989-1383