Symptoms
The Symptoms of PTSD often appear after 3 months of the traumatic event, but sometimes they may appear earlier or later. PTSD often fall in one of the four categories. The symptoms and severity may vary per person and event.
1. Intrusion
Intrusive thoughts, such as flashbacks, dreams or reoccuring memories of the traumatic event are what classifies as a PTSD symptom. Flashbacks may happen
so realistic and lucid that people who have PTSD often feel like they're reliving the traumatic experience, seeing it before their eyes. This symptom
can also be refered to as a "PTSD Attack".
It's important to comfort them during an attack similar to this, and attend to their needs with sensitivity and care.
2. Avoidance
The trauma people have gone through can be so painful that, they unconsciously avoid reminders of the traumatic event. Reminders such as places, activities,
objects, situations and people can arouse anxiety and trigger memories. They may also refuse to talk about the event, what happened, or how they feel about it.
It's important to remember to never force or push a conversation about their trauma, if they do not wish to do so. It may trigger a PTSD symptom/attack,
which can have dire consequences.
3. Arousal and Reactivity
People who have PTSD also can have trouble in controlling their actions, impulses or behaviour towards others.
Feeling tense, on guard, or on edge all the time are symptoms. They can also have difficulty in concentrating or
falling asleep or staying asleep. They can feel irritable and is susceptible to anger outbursts. They are also
most likely to engage in risky, reckless or destructive behaviour, towards others or themselves.
These symptoms are often constant, and can interfere with their daily lives. It's important to understand
that they cannot control these symptoms, and always lend a helping out to them.
4. Cognitive and Mood
Negative thoughts and feelings can rise from the unfortunate events, which can warp and change their paradigms about themselves and the world.
They can develop distorted beliefs about others or themselves such as "It's my fault", "I deserved it", "No one can be trusted", and more. They
have ongoing guilt, anger, horror, shame and lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed. They can feel deattached to others, and unable to
process or experience positive emotions.
It's important to seek professional help and advice
if you're experiencing these symptoms. It is not your fault and you are never alone.
