5 Common Misconceptions regarding PTSD
#1: PTSD only happens to those who can’t handle tough situations.
People often think that having post-traumatic stress disorder is a sign of mental weakness. In reality, even the mentally toughest human can be emotionally affected by something if they aren’t mentally prepared for an event. Psychological trauma is a product of the complex relationship between biological, psychological, historical and social factors. Thus, it varies greatly from person to person.
#2: Only service members / veterans have PTSD.
While people who are exposed to traumatic events are inherently more susceptible to psychological trauma, not everyone develops PTSD. Just like in all things human, people are different and react differently to these stressors. Some people are more adept at managing stress, while many others have never even been exposed to these situations. Each person is very unique in their experiences and should be treated as such.
#1: PTSD only happens to those who can’t handle tough situations.
People often think that having post-traumatic stress disorder is a sign of mental weakness. In reality, even the mentally toughest human can be emotionally affected by something if they aren’t mentally prepared for an event. Psychological trauma is a product of the complex relationship between biological, psychological, historical and social factors. Thus, it varies greatly from person to person.
#2: Only service members / veterans have PTSD.
While people who are exposed to traumatic events are inherently more susceptible to psychological trauma, not everyone develops PTSD. Just like in all things human, people are different and react differently to these stressors. Some people are more adept at managing stress, while many others have never even been exposed to these situations. Each person is very unique in their experiences and should be treated as such.
#3: PTSD isn't something you can overcome.
PTSD should never be taken lightly, but it also doesn't mean that you can’t learn to overcome these issues. PTSD is a trauma that can be treated and managed with proper mental health care. Never just accept the problem; tackle the issue head on and get the care you need. And remember, what works for one person may not work for another. Find out what works for you and stick with it.
#4: PTSD occurs instantly after the traumatic event.
Often times it can take more than a month for symptoms to emerge. In many cases new stresses or old memories can bring prior trauma to the forefront. This causes the mental anguish the person suffered previously to emerge and take root in a variety of ways. The most common symptoms can be seen as avoidance or hyper arousal. Don’t be surprised if things that didn’t affect you then affect you now. Just be prepared to handle those issues right away and don’t let yourself become overwhelmed.
#5 PTSD makes you unstable and violent.
While PTSD symptoms can vary widely, angry outbursts and violence don’t always occur; even if the illness was brought on by violent events. Moreover, how a person reacts to a traumatic event is wholly dependent on their individual qualities and feelings. The presence of PTSD or a psychological condition does not make someone more prone to violence. Therefore someone with PTSD should not be viewed as a threat in the workplace.
This was taken from veterans united.com...however...I have changed a few things so that it now reflects all persons living with PTSD.
PTSD should never be taken lightly, but it also doesn't mean that you can’t learn to overcome these issues. PTSD is a trauma that can be treated and managed with proper mental health care. Never just accept the problem; tackle the issue head on and get the care you need. And remember, what works for one person may not work for another. Find out what works for you and stick with it.
#4: PTSD occurs instantly after the traumatic event.
Often times it can take more than a month for symptoms to emerge. In many cases new stresses or old memories can bring prior trauma to the forefront. This causes the mental anguish the person suffered previously to emerge and take root in a variety of ways. The most common symptoms can be seen as avoidance or hyper arousal. Don’t be surprised if things that didn’t affect you then affect you now. Just be prepared to handle those issues right away and don’t let yourself become overwhelmed.
#5 PTSD makes you unstable and violent.
While PTSD symptoms can vary widely, angry outbursts and violence don’t always occur; even if the illness was brought on by violent events. Moreover, how a person reacts to a traumatic event is wholly dependent on their individual qualities and feelings. The presence of PTSD or a psychological condition does not make someone more prone to violence. Therefore someone with PTSD should not be viewed as a threat in the workplace.
This was taken from veterans united.com...however...I have changed a few things so that it now reflects all persons living with PTSD.
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