Helping A Loved One With Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder develops differently from person to person. It's quite normal to feel anxious, sad and frightened after a traumatic experience. But if the distress doesn't fade and one tends to feel stuck with a constant sense of danger and excruciating memories, he or she may be suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder.

Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder

• Anxiety
• Flashbacks and upsetting memories
• Nightmares
• Strong physical reactions to situations, people, or things that remind you of the event
• Avoidance of places, activities, and people you once enjoyed
• Feeling more aware of things
• Guilt

Few ways to help a loved one with PTSD

Reducing stress is important for preventing and reducing the risk for health problems that may be affecting their daily life. Help them identify the source of their stress and suggest effective steps to manage it.

• Learn everything about PTSD as this can help you be better prepared to handle the situation
• Don't take his or her behavior personally and don't judge them.
• Be a good listener by giving inputs when needed.
• Offer validation and encouragement by reminding your loved one of all his or her good qualities.
• When talking to your loved one with PTSD, stay positive and voice your feelings clearly.
• Encourage your loved one to spend time with family and friends.
• Encourage treatment as it's vital for recovery.
• Try to keep them away from situations that remind him or her of the trauma.
• Avoid making harsh remarks and don't tell him or her to get over problems, this may only make things worse.
• Give your loved one some space and be willing to step aside every once in a while.
• Do not blame the victim as it will only create distance or possibly re-traumatize the sufferer.

Is acute stress disorder (ASD) same as PTSD?

A person may experience acute stress disorder after experiencing a traumatic incident, such as the death of a loved one or an accident.

Temporary memory loss, social withdrawal, emotional detachment, and feelings of hopelessness are some of the associated symptoms.

Acute stress disorder develops right away after the event, while post-traumatic stress disorder develops as a result of the trauma's long-term effects. If someone has ASD, they are very likely to get PTSD.

For the patient to finally process their suffering, develop coping mechanism, and learn how to deal with upcoming stressors, early therapy for either of the disorders is essential.

In a nutshell

Keep in mind that your loved one will take time to get better! Hence it's important for you to be patient, understanding and be able to offer a sympathetic ear! A lot of times, stress is caused by internal factors rather than external. If you think your loved one needs professional help, talk to counselor for emotional support and treatment.