Understanding PTSD: Raising Awareness
PTSD Awareness Month
In Australia, June is recognised as PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its impact on individuals. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event or series of ongoing events. It impacts millions of people worldwide, and by increasing awareness, we can help those affected by PTSD receive the very crucial support and treatment they need.
This is something very close to my heart, on both a personal and professional level. So, I'm going to take some time to explore with you the symptoms of PTSD, with a particular focus on one of its key symptoms - avoidance.
Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a complex condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as (but not limited to) a natural disaster, combat, physical or sexual abuse, or a serious accident. Or other less visible traumas such as childhood emotional neglect, domestic violence, or a difficult family separation, just to name a few.
Essentially, anytime that someone experiences trauma, which is anything that is too much, happens too quickly and too soon for them, PTSD is for many a consequence that follows. It is an individual's nervous system response to the distress they personally experience. While it is normal to experience distress after such occurrences, individuals with PTSD continue to experience intense and disturbing symptoms that significantly and negatively impact their daily lives.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD is characterised by four main clusters of symptoms: re-experiencing, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and hyperarousal. Avoidance is a common symptom that individuals with PTSD may display. It often involves avoiding people, places, activities, or situations that they believe will trigger responses, memories, thoughts etc stemming from the traumatic experience/s. This avoidance can be both physical and emotional, as people may isolate themselves from others or suppress their thoughts and emotions related to the trauma.
The Impact of Avoidance
Avoidance is a coping mechanism that individuals with PTSD use to protect themselves from the distressing responses, memories and emotions associated with their traumatic experience. While it may provide temporary relief, long-term avoidance can have detrimental effects on their mental health, nervous system health and overall wellbeing. Avoidance can lead to social withdrawal, strained relationships, and a decreased quality of life. It can also hinder the healing process and prevent individuals from seeking the necessary support and treatment that they deserve.
Raising Awareness
PTSD Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to educate the wider public about the impact of trauma and the importance of early intervention and support. By increasing awareness, we can reduce the stigma surrounding PTSD and encourage individuals to seek help without hesitation. It is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment where those affected by PTSD feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking professional assistance.
Supporting those with PTSD
Supporting individuals with PTSD can seem daunting, but on a basic level it includes showing genuine empathy and understanding, alongside real validation. On another level, being able to point individuals to spaces where they can find access to appropriate resources can be particularly helpful.
Encouraging open conversations about mental health, nervous system health and PTSD can help break down barriers and promote a more understanding culture with less stigma. Even if it doesn't impact us personally yet, I'm going to say that at some point it most likely will, in which case it will be essential for us to have some knowledge of how to navigate such an experience and what the available treatment options are. Options such as therapy, specifically the various types of trauma therapy, support groups, medications, and encouraging individuals to seek professional support when needed.
Make a difference
PTSD Awareness Month this June provides another opportunity to shine a light on the impact of trauma on so many people's lives, and the incredible importance of understanding and supporting those individuals navigating the reality of PTSD.
By recognising the symptoms of PTSD, particularly avoidance, we can begin to further comprehend some of the challenges faced by those affected and work towards creating a more compassionate, understanding and well-informed culture - whether that's at work, in your family, your neighbourhood, your friendship circle, sporting club or your hometown . Let’s use this month (and beyond) to spread awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure that individuals with PTSD receive the help they need to heal and thrive. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those living with PTSD.