How to Spot Symptoms of PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can be triggered by any traumatic event which causes certain reactions in a person. After September 11, 2001 workers, citizens, and even people who were just bombarded with horrible TV images experienced PTSD symptoms. Victims of sexual abuse, and assault as well as soldiers, citizens, and children who are living through wars also experience symptoms of PTSD. Survivors of events like hurricanes, tornadoes, or even a car accident can experience PTSD.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
How to Spot Symptoms of PTSD
-
1
Pay close attention to the person's behavior. Nightmares and flashbacks are very common experiences for someone with PTSD. Many people suffering PTSD may hide their symptoms, so notice if they seem more tired during day, are waking up more often through the night, or suddenly seem to be in "la-la land."
-
2
Take note of physical changes as well. A stomach ache is not just a stomach ache if it occurs frequently and especially if it occurs while re-experiencing a traumatic event. If a soldier is suffering PTSD, he/she may walk out of a violent movie complaining of not feeling well, a headache, stomach ache, dizziness, and other similar symptoms while truthfully they are experiencing symptoms of PTSD.
-
-
3
Do not force the person to "talk it out." Reliving traumatic experiences can be detrimental to someone suffering PTSD. Avoidance of anything that has to do with the traumatic event is very common. Some people may even block out pieces or all of a traumatic event just to avoid it. Talking about and reliving the event is best left in the hands of professional. Instead of saying, "Tell me everything that happened," try offering to accompany your loved on to a counselor or psychologist.
-
4
Notice signs of hyper-arousal. Difficulty concentrating, increased heart rate, shakiness, sweating, confusion, jumpiness, irritability, and extreme reactions are all signs that someone is in a hyper-aroused state. This means they feel constantly on guard.
-
5
Do not overlook addictions. Some people suffering from PTSD may develop addictions or their addictive behaviors may worsen. If your loved one is drinking, gambling, trying harder drugs, searching out people to "hook up" with, or if those behaviors worsen dramatically after their traumatic experience, this may be caused by PTSD. Things like drinking can be a way to cope with their symptoms. Do not accept it. Get them help.
-
6
Keep in mind that symptoms of PTSD can be short-term or long-term. They can take days or years to develop. The symptoms may appear gradually or in an instant. When you notice changes in your loved one, write them down. If there seems to be a pattern or if these changes are affecting their life, get them help immediately.
-
1
