• Jun 3
• AddictionRecovery

PTSD Awareness Day: Understanding Symptoms and Support 

What is PTSD? 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects millions of people, but is often misunderstood. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. While it’s normal to feel afraid during and after a trauma, people with PTSD continue to experience intense thoughts and feelings related to their experience long after the danger has passed. Symptoms usually start within three months of the trauma, but they can also appear years later. To be diagnosed with PTSD, these symptoms must last more than a month and interfere with daily functioning. 

What are the symptoms of PTSD? 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, people with PTSD typically experience the following symptoms: 

Avoidance Symptoms: 

• Avoiding places, events, or objects that remind them of the traumatic experience. 

• Avoiding daily routines associated with the event, such as avoiding driving or riding in a car after a serious car accident. 

Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms: 

• Being easily startled 

• Having difficulty concentrating 

• Feeling highly alert, on edge, or tense 

• Having trouble falling or staying asleep 

• Being irritable 

• Engaging in risky behavior 

Cognition and Mood Symptoms 

• Difficulty remembering the main features of the traumatic event 

• Trouble experiencing positive emotions like happiness or contentment 

• Ongoing negative emotions, such as anger, guilt, fear, or shame 

• Distorted perceptions about the event that cause feelings of blame 

• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities 

• Feelings of numbness or emotional distance from others 

Re-Experiencing Symptoms 

• Flashbacks of the traumatic event often accompany physical symptoms like sweating or rapid heartbeat 

• Recurring dreams or memories related to the traumatic event 

• Physical signs of stress, such as panic attacks, difficulty breathing, or fatigue 

Supporting Someone with PTSD 

Educate Yourself: Learn about PTSD to better understand what your loved one is going through. Knowledge of the causes and symptoms of the disorder can help you better empathize with them.  

Be Patient and Understanding: Healing from trauma is not linear. Be patient with their pace and try not to take symptoms personally. Let them talk when they’re ready, and avoid pushing them to share details before they’re comfortable. 

Create a Sense of Safety: Consistency, routines, and calm environments can help someone with PTSD feel secure. Minimizing stress can help your loved one feel more relaxed. 

Encourage Professional Help: Suggest your loved one receives professional help, if they aren’t already. The symptoms of PTSD are complex, but can be improved significantly with the appropriate doctors, therapists, and support groups.   

PTSD and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) 

Many individuals suffering from PTSD also struggle with SUD. Some may use substances to self-medicate the symptoms they face from PTSD and numb the pain or anxiety they feel. However, substance use ultimately worsens the condition and creates additional physical and mental health complications. To effectively treat co-occurring PTSD and SUD, both conditions must be addressed simultaneously to foster effective recovery. 

Help is Available 

At Gateway Foundation, we understand the complex relationship between trauma and substance use. Our trauma-informed care approach ensures that individuals receive compassionate, evidence-based treatment for both PTSD and substance use disorders. With the right support, recovery is possible for everyone.  

If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder, call 877-505-HOPE.