PTSD is a normal response to an abnormal event.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is something many people have heard of—but not everyone understands. You might think it only happens to soldiers or people in war zones. But the truth is, PTSD can affect anyone, and it’s more common than you may realize.

Let’s break it down in simple terms:

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can happen after a person goes through something really scary, shocking, or overwhelming. It could be:

• A car accident
  
• A natural disaster like a tornado, flood, or fire
  
• Abuse or violence
  
• Losing someone close in a traumatic way
  
• Medical emergencies
  
• Combat or war

Sometimes, people feel okay at first and think they’ve moved on. But weeks or even months later, the stress from that event can come back and cause strong emotional and physical reactions.

What Are the Signs of PTSD?

PTSD looks different for everyone, but some common signs include:

• Reliving the trauma through nightmares or flashbacks
  
• Avoiding things or places that remind you of the trauma
  
• Feeling on edge all the time (easily startled or angry)
  
• Negative thoughts or mood, like guilt, hopelessness, or feeling disconnected
  
• Trouble sleeping or concentrating

These symptoms can make daily life hard—at work, at home, or in relationships.

Why Does PTSD Happen?

PTSD is the brain’s way of trying to protect you after something terrifying and overwhelming happens. Your body goes into “survival mode” during a traumatic event. But for some people, the brain stays in that alert, stressed state, even after the danger is gone.

It’s not a sign of weakness, and it’s not your fault. PTSD is a normal response to an abnormal event.

Can PTSD Be Treated?

Yes—absolutely. People can and do heal from PTSD.

Here are some proven ways to treat PTSD:

1. Therapy

Talking with a trained, trauma-informed mental health professional can help you process the trauma in a safe way. Research best supports the use of trauma-focused psychotherapies for treating PTSD. “Trauma-focused” therapy means that the therapy focuses on the trauma and the meaning it has for the individual. Examples of trauma-focused therapeutic modalities include:

• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) helps people identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about the trauma, which can reduce distress and improve coping skills.
• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a special kind of therapy that helps reprocess traumatic memories.
• Prolonged Exposure Therapy decreases PTSD symptoms by helping individuals gradually and safely confront and process trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations they have been avoiding.

2. Medication

Some people benefit from taking antidepressants, often SSRIs, for help with anxiety, depression, or sleep problems associated with PTSD. Always talk to a doctor to explore your options and decide what’s right for you.

3. Support Groups

Joining a PTSD support group has numerous benefits. Talking to others who’ve been through something similar can help you feel less alone.

4. Self-Care

Don’t roll your eyes at self-care! Sleep, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness are all crucial components of recovery. Small, consistent steps can make a big difference.

You’re Not Alone

If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD, remember: healing is possible. You don’t have to be stuck in the past forever or go through this alone.

Resources You Can Reach Out To

• National Center for PTSD
  
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  
• NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness
  

Final Thought

PTSD is not a life sentence. With the right help and support, people can feel better, gain control, and live fulfilling lives. Reach out to a trauma-informed counselor at Abide and take that first step toward healing.