Many people who experience a traumatic incident struggle to move on and develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Some have flashbacks and nightmares related to the event. Another effect of PTSD on daily life is that victims deliberately avoid reminders of what happened and can’t remember details of the incident.
According to the National Center for PTSD, 6% of the population has PTSD at some point in their lives. Women are more likely to experience PTSD than men. The good news is that PTSD is treatable, especially if the condition is recognized early on.
Understanding PTSD and Its Symptoms
PTSD is an anxiety disorder related to an emotional or physical reaction to an unpleasant or traumatic incident. It can affect the people directly involved as well as close bystanders and witnesses.
Events that cause PTSD include:
- Violence. Assault, abuse, rape, injury or terrorism
- Accidents. Vehicle, train and air crashes
- Natural disasters. Earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes and floods
- Loss. Death of someone close, job loss or loss of livelihood
The consequences of PTSD are devastating. People with PTSD often develop severe emotional and psychological problems that impact their ability to function or socialize. They’re in a constant state of stress and easily frightened. PTSD sufferers may become detached from the world and people around them, and they may feel isolated and unable to reach out for help.
The Ripple Effects of PTSD on Family and Relationships
PTSD disrupts family life. A person suffering from PTSD may have difficulty managing their emotions. They’re easily startled and react with fear and anger. A person with PTSD is often emotionally numb, making it difficult to express their feelings. A car backfiring, someone shouting, a family argument or unexpected events can trigger PTSD symptoms.
People with PTSD may feel their loved ones don’t understand them or what they’re going through. They tend to withdraw, avoid communicating with the family and dodge social interactions. Families don’t know what to do or how to react to a loved one with PTSD. They may become afraid of the angry and sometimes violent outbursts. Marital problems are common.
The Effect of PTSD on Daily Life
If you or a loved one has PTSD, your daily life has likely been severely disrupted. You’re probably emotionally scarred and frightened. These reactions are involuntary, and the symptoms of PTSD often worsen before they get better. This is how PTSD affects daily life:
- Avoidance behavior. Someone with PTSD often avoids places or situations that may trigger memories of the traumatic event. They avoid talking about their condition.
- Negative thinking. Their outlook on life is negative. They feel inadequate and unworthy and have feelings of guilt associated with PTSD.
- Disturbing memories. Current and past events related to the trauma may trigger flashbacks of the event. These can cause fear, anger or anxiety. Frightening nightmares related to PTSD are common.
- Hypervigilance. A PTSD sufferer has difficulty relaxing and is constantly alert. They’re easily startled by strange noises or when someone unexpectedly touches them. Their reactions may be extreme.
- Difficulty concentrating. They may have trouble concentrating on chores and tasks and struggle to hold down a job.
- Memory problems. It’s common for someone with PTSD to experience memory gaps from the incident and afterward. They may completely forget about things they’ve done or conversations with people.
Why Treatment Is Essential for Everyone Involved
Treatment is essential. Untreated PTSD gets worse over time. According to the Cleveland Clinic, around 30% of people recover from PTSD following treatment. In 40% of cases, survivors get better but may still experience minor PTSD symptoms.
PTSD Therapy
Psychotherapy is regarded as the most effective treatment for PTSD. Common therapies include:
- Cognitive processing therapy. This therapy changes how you think and feel about the trauma.
- Prolonged exposure therapy. In a series of extended therapy sessions, you talk through the memories until they no longer upset you.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. The use of sound and eye movements helps the brain deal with the trauma.
Medication
Medicines can’t cure PTSD. However, certain antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, ease PTSD symptoms. The doctor may also prescribe medication that helps prevent nightmares.
Family Therapy
Therapy can help family members deal with the impact of PTSD on their lives. It improves communication and breaks down barriers caused by PTSD. Family therapy reduces the sense of isolation felt by the PTSD sufferer.
Supporting a Loved One With PTSD
If your spouse or loved one has PTSD, you can help by being there and staying supportive. Family therapy helps you understand the interaction between PTSD and relationships. Practical ways to support a loved one include:
- Learn about PTSD. Find out all you can about PTSD and its effect on daily life.
- Be patient. Recovery takes time. There will be setbacks, but stay positive.
- Encourage them to talk. When they’re ready, let them talk about their experiences and how they feel. Learn to be a good listener.
- Manage your stress. Look after your own mental health through counseling and giving yourself time to exercise and do things you enjoy.
- Help them feel loved and supported. Let your loved one know you’re there for them. Don’t push them or be judgmental.
- Organize activities. Organize family outings and other normal activities, and create a supportive structure with a regular home routine.
- Accompany them to the doctor. Go with your loved one to the doctor and therapist. If needed, assist by making appointments and arranging transport.
Finding Help for PTSD
PTSD is a debilitating condition, but you’re not alone. The counselors at the National Mental Health Hotline are available 24-7 to listen and provide help and guidance. They can connect you with reputable PTSD therapists in your area so you can get assistance. Contact us now; there’s always someone to listen and help you.
