Post traumatic stress disorder symptoms may be the more obvious PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks, recurring dreams and nightmares and the constant memory of a traumatic event. However, post traumatic stress disorder symptoms can also start to manifest on different levels and may include fatigue, memory problems, confusion and the disruption to the normal routine. The writer of this article was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder some time ago and the symptoms still show up occasionally. Post traumatic stress disorder symptoms also interfered with work, relationships and social skills. Pastimes that were once enjoyable became either joyless or reminded one of traumatic events.
Post traumatic stress disorder symptoms can start to appear some months after a traumatic event, though there may be some delay (as in the case of the writer) and the symptoms of PTSD may not appear until some years after the event. The causes of post traumatic stress disorder can be anything from witnessing a tragic event, to experiencing trauma from childhood or to simply hearing about a horrifying event. This all depends on the initial sensitivity of the person; however, with post traumatic stress disorder it is important never to assume that the person is strong enough to cope – the symptoms may come crashing down later on in life.
Anyone experiencing post traumatic stress disorder symptoms needs to see their medical practitioner. As obvious as this sounds, too often we think we can cope after a traumatic event and so do not feel that we need help. With your doctor knowing that you have post traumatic stress disorder then more help will be able from support groups to therapies and more.
On a personal note, the writer’s post traumatic stress disorder symptoms began as increased irritation, loss of patience and more intolerance. This then started to manifest as mild forms of self harm, gradually becoming more severe. Then depression would come and go, but deeper each time until eventually the whole world came crashing down. It was not until the writer paid a visit to the doctor that he was told that he was showing symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder.
Treatments will vary according to severity of PTSD and the nature of the patient. The writer found that support groups were invaluable at the beginning, but they can constantly remind one of the traumatic event or the disorder and so other treatments, such as desensitising etc. should also be applied. they do say that ‘whatever is seen cannot be unseen’, however the effects of any traumatic event can be lessened with patience, time and relevant therapy. Above all, it is important if you are experiencing post traumatic stress disorder symptoms that you get recognised so that the help is available to you. This condition is not necessarily permanent and healing is always available.
Remember that you are not alone and that many people also suffer from post traumatic stress disorder symptoms and will understand what you are going through.
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