Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a common but often stigmatised mental health issue that affects millions around the world.
Here are some facts on PTSD that you should know:
PTSD effects often appear years later
Trauma can trigger PTSD but in most instances it is not diagnosed professionally. Symptoms can sometimes appear years later and can include anxiety, depression and panic. The delayed onset of symptoms can make the sufferer believe that it is caused by other reasons.
Women experience higher rates of PTSD
The common stereotype is that PTSD only affects war veterans. However, the latest studies suggest that women are more likely to be affected by PTSD than men. One of the most common causes of PTSD for women is sexual trauma.
PTSD rarely goes away by itself
As with most mental health issues today, people expect it to heal with the passing of time. This is a common misconception as PTSD tends to remain unless professionally treated. The good news is, there are a variety of treatments that are successful in treating PTSD today.
Children can develop PTSD just like adults
Trauma that can affect an adult often has even more powerful effects on a child. The main difference is that children tend to express it in more subtle ways. These representations may appear in their school art, the language they use or angry and defiant behaviour. Paying attention to these signs can make all the difference in getting the treatment they might require.
We have different tolerances for trauma
Exposure to trauma is not a guaranteed predictor for PTSD. We have different ways of coping and perceiving the events in our lives. Because of this difference, PTSD can appear in some people, but not in others.
Exercise is beneficial for PTSD sufferers
Studies have shown the exercise can assist in the management of a variety of mental disorders, and this extends to the treatment of PTSD. Exercise is known to release “feel good” chemicals and increase a person’s sense of wellbeing and should be part of a balanced treatment program.
PTSD is not experienced in the same way for everyone
For some PTSD sufferers, they can experience vivid images and sounds as if they were transported back in time. For others, they can just experience the feelings of anxiety and panic. It is important to recognise that there is not a single way people experience PTSD.
In summary:
Post traumatic stress disorder can turn a person’s life upside down. It can strike whenever we are exposed to trauma and it is helpful to know what to look out for so that proper treatment can be applied.
Click here for more information on PTSD and discover how hypnotherapy can treat PTSD rapidly.
