Today, I’m so excited to share a new guest post. PTSD is something that many chronic illness warriors face, and I know we can learn a lot from what Rhonda has to share with us.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (or PTSD) is a devastating mental health disorder. Through no fault of their own, individuals develop PTSD as a result of experiencing some kind of trauma. Despite common misconception, people can develop PTSD through a wide range of awful experiences — including miscarriages, witnessing a crime or fatal accident, or having experienced a life-threatening illness or situation. The scope of traumas that can lead to the condition is far more broad than once believed.
Another common myth about PTSD is that military personnel and veterans are the only people who can have it. Although anyone can face this debilitating condition, those who have served are far more likely to experience the disorder (when compared to the general population). If you are close with a veteran who battles with PTSD, S.G. Willoughby shares psychology-backed recommendations for helping them cope.
Educate yourself about the symptoms of PTSD
For those who’ve never experienced PTSD first-hand, it can be difficult to identify symptom flare-ups in someone else. Even if you are married to a veteran who has the condition, you may not know when your spouse is facing flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or hyper-vigilance. The best first step you can take is to educate yourself about the symptoms of PTSD. Know what to look for, what to avoid, and what can help a veteran through a flare-up.
Be mindful of PTSD triggers
All individuals with PTSD have what are known as “triggers.” As the name suggests, a trigger is something that reminds an individual of the traumatic situation. This can cause a person to spiral into disturbing flashbacks of the event, which often produce severe anxiety and panic attacks. While those who’ve been in combat are commonly triggered by loud sounds (e.g. fireworks), any stimuli related to the trauma can cause flashbacks. Whatever sights, sounds, and smells were present during the trauma can become a trigger. Understanding a veteran’s specific triggers allows you to be mindful of what you should help them avoid.
Connect veterans to educational opportunities and resources
Setting goals and plans for the future can be a healthy part of recovering from any mental health condition. After an individual’s military career has ended, and they are left to face the symptoms of PTSD, moving forward is often extremely challenging.
Helping veterans connect with educational opportunities and resources — such as a master’s degree program — can help them advance their life and career. Online advanced degree programs are especially helpful for those with PTSD since coursework can be taken at an individual’s own pace. During weeks where mental health symptoms flare up, online programs provide much-needed flexibility.
Provide daily encouragement
Never underestimate the power of kind words. Whether you choose to share your favorite Bible verses or simply let someone talk about their feelings, daily encouragement can go a long way in helping those with PTSD. This is especially the case if a veteran is facing a long-term injury or illness alongside the disorder.
Make it easier to seek mental health support
Finding mental health support is rarely easy. Establishing care with a provider, attending weekly sessions, handling medical bills, and being open and vulnerable are all challenges that veterans face. Depending on your relationship, do whatever is appropriate to help the individual seek mental health support.
PTSD is a long-term illness that can be managed with the right support. By following the recommendations above, you can better help the veterans that you know who face this terrible condition.
Rhonda Underhill
Guest Writer
Rhonda is a classic example of a health scare leading to a complete lifestyle change. She hopes her site, Getwellderly.com, can encourage adults approaching their golden years to get serious about their physical health now rather than later.
