Trauma can leave lasting scars. It can linger long after the event itself has passed.
Take Logan, for instance. An avid surfer since childhood, Logan loved the thrill of catching a wave. But everything changed after a devastating surfing accident.
1. What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. This could be a car accident, a violent attack, or even a traumatic break-up. While feeling scared after something scary happens is normal, with PTSD, those feelings become persistent and overwhelming.
2. Symptoms to Watch For
PTSD symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:
- Intrusive memories: Vivid nightmares, flashbacks, and unwanted thoughts about the traumatic event.
- Emotional numbness and withdrawal: Feeling disconnected from emotions, losing interest in once-enjoyed activities, and avoiding social situations.
- Hypervigilance and arousal: Feeling constantly on edge, easily startled, and struggling to relax or sleep.
- Negative thoughts and mood: Experiencing guilt, shame, or a general sense of negativity about the world.
- Irritability and anger outbursts: Feeling easily annoyed and prone to sudden outbursts.
- Self-destructive behaviours: Trying to numb the pain with alcohol, drugs, or risky behaviour.
3. What Causes PTSD?
The exact cause of PTSD is unknown, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing it, such as:
- Severity of the trauma: The more intense or terrifying the event, the higher the risk of PTSD.
- Prior traumas: Having experienced other difficult life experiences can make you more vulnerable.
- Lack of social support: A strong support system can significantly aid in coping with trauma. Those without it may be at greater risk for PTSD.
4. Finding Help for PTSD
Talking to a therapist can be highly beneficial. Various therapeutic approaches can help manage PTSD, each with its strengths. Here are a few examples:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps identify negative thought patterns related to the trauma and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR uses eye movements and guided imagery to help process traumatic memories.
- Exposure Therapy: This therapy gradually exposes you to reminders of the trauma in a safe and controlled environment.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed by a doctor to manage anxiety and sleep problems that can accompany PTSD.
5. Taking Care of Yourself
While therapy and medication are valuable tools, there are things you can do on your own to feel better:
- Talk to supportive people: Reach out to friends, family, or anyone you trust and share how you’re feeling. Bottling up emotions can make things worse.
- Calm your mind: Techniques like mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage stress and anxiety.
- Look after your body: Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Taking care of your physical health can also improve your mental well-being.
- Limit alcohol and drugs: These substances can worsen PTSD symptoms and hurt recovery.
- Do things you enjoy: Even if it feels difficult, try to re-engage in hobbies or activities that used to bring you joy.
6. Living Beyond the Trauma
PTSD is a serious condition, but millions of people manage it. There’s no shame in seeking help. With the right support, healing and moving forward is possible.
If you think you or someone you know might have PTSD, please reach out to a professional.
Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional.
Dr Pierre Ehlers Orthopaedic surgeon Pinelands
Positive Therapy – Cheryl Inggs Rondebosch
