You don’t have to be a victim of a traumatic event to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You may be the person who witnessed a violent act or who has been repeatedly exposed to life-threatening situations. Traumatic events may include:
· Combat exposure
· Rape or sexual assault or abuse
· Children who are neglected or sexually, physically, or verbally abused, or adults who were abused as children
· Physical attack or being threatened with a weapon
Other traumatic events that may lead to PTSD include fire, natural disaster, major catastrophic events such as a car accident, plane crash or terrorist act, physical assault such as mugging, robbery or carjacking, kidnapping, diagnosis with a life-threatening illness, other random acts of violence such as those that take place in public, in schools, or in the workplace.
A person with PTSD may experience symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. At times the mind will use a coping mechanism that does not allow you to consciously remember the trauma. However, the subconscious mind retains the details and will continue to react to them until treatment occurs. PTSD can be very disruptive and make daily tasks difficult or impossible to complete.
Shiawassee County Community Mental Health Authority, CEO, Scott Gilman states “PTSD is treatable, but it is imperative for survivors to take the steps to get help. You do not have to suffer in silence. Receiving treatment soon after symptoms develop may prevent long-term PTSD.” There are programs available to prevent, diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate those who have PTSD. It is important to remember there is no set time for healing. Everyone’s healing journey varies based on desire, determination and access to help. Therefore healing can take as little as one month or as long as a few years. If you believe you are experiencing PTSD, contact your family doctor or Shiawassee County Community Mental Health Authority.
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