PTSD "Post Traumatic Stress Disorder" You can't always see the scars or damage that is
PTSD affects people from all walks of life and too many times we don't talk about it...... Having PTSD is not anything to be ashamed about or thinking it is a weakness because it is not. I understand the feeling of being lost, scared, afraid of what could be.........
Becoming a hollow shell of your former self, but not letting anyone see your pain. Even watching someone you love or care about suffer from PTSD can be heartbreaking. Their emotions may be extreme deep sadness, depression or extreme anger. When encountering a PTSD episode they may suddenly find their mind stripped away from the present and dragged unwillingly back into the trauma. The true reality is millions of people around this beautiful planet suffer from PTSD, but are afraid to talk about it or not able to receive treatment.
No one wants to be labeled or treated any different such as with caution like they have a contagious disease or made to feel like they are a ticking time bomb. PTSD is serious and people that suffer from it just want to feel normal. The feeling of always on alert and they may feel completely detached from real life. So many say they are coping with it, but if not treated symptoms can become so overwhelming that it will interfere with day to day living. Your job, family and your relationships can be affected.
There is said to be three different types of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Acute, Chronic, and Delayed), but they are all serious.
Signs to look for: disassociation, guilt, confusion, feeling helpless, feeling isolated, anger, fear, suicidal thoughts, feeling worthless, insomnia, exhaustion, a loss of interest, a loss of libido, blame, desire to stay home, hostility, withdrawing from life. These are very powerful feelings that can last for days, weeks, or even months. It is not easy to diagnose PTSD.
Using alcohol and drugs to cope sadly is what so many turn to, to numb the pain. Unfortunately, using drugs and alcohol to cope can lead to more problems. Prescription drugs are the go to for so many doctors for treatment, but it only treats the symptoms not the sole issue. Going to a therapist can be expensive for those with or without insurance and having the right one can take time. No one wants to be analyzed and told what is wrong with them, when they already know they are in pain and judged everyday.
Holistic treatment in my opinion is the most effective way of dealing with PTSD. It has been shown that mindfulness meditation helps to ease work stressors and help to promote relaxation. Medical Cannabis has been studied to treat PTSD and other disorders and have been greatly successful. There are a wide variety of holistic practices in treating our bodies and mind (reiki, energy healing, yoga), but know when to seek professional help such as a doctor or a 72 hour clinic. It is ok to ask for help, don't let your mind go because of your pride. Don't be afraid to ask someone if they are ok because that could be their life-line. Help someone else heal.
Not everyone wears their emotions on their sleeve so ask the important question "How are you doing today?"
