Debunking the Biggest Myths about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD is Not Just a Military Issue

There is a common myth that PTSD only affects military veterans or others who have experienced combat. However, PTSD can occur in anyone who has experienced severe trauma, whether from an accident, abuse, health issues, natural disasters, or other causes.

Civilians are at Risk Too

While combat exposure certainly puts veterans at a higher risk of developing PTSD, it is estimated that 7-8% of the general population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. This includes civilians who have gone through physical or sexual abuse, traumatic accidents or illnesses, loss of loved ones, or natural disasters. PTSD does not discriminate based on occupation.

Women and PTSD

Due to higher rates of sexual assault and abuse, women are actually more likely to develop PTSD than men. Up to 10% of women experience PTSD compared to just 4% of men. Women are twice as likely to develop PTSD from traumatic events like car accidents as well.

PTSD Symptoms Usually Don't Appear Right Away

Many people assume that PTSD symptoms appear immediately after a traumatic event. However, it is common for symptoms to take time to fully manifest.

Delayed Reactions to Trauma

Some people exhibit PTSD symptoms within the first month of a traumatic event, known as acute stress disorder. But for a diagnosis of PTSD, symptoms must persist for at least one month. It is typical for PTSD symptoms to appear several months after a trauma, sometimes even years later.

Triggers Can Bring On Late Reactions

PTSD sufferers may feel fine months after a trauma, until they encounter a "trigger" - something that reminds them of the event and brings on symptoms like flashbacks, panic attacks, and hypervigilance.

PTSD Does Not Make You Dangerous or Violent

There is a stigma in society of those with PTSD being unstable or violent. However, having PTSD does not inherently make someone more prone to hurting others.

Violence as a Trauma Response

A very small percentage of PTSD sufferers have trauma-related flashbacks that cause them to harm others, but this is extremely rare. And someone with PTSD is still far more likely to harm themselves than others.

Worsened Mental Health

That said, PTSD often leads to or worsens other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. And while the majority of sufferers are not violent, having co-morbid disorders does increase risks of violence or self-harm somewhat.

PTSD has Very High Rates of Suicide

Although the violence stigma around PTSD is inaccurate, it does have very real - and very serious - risks that should not be ignored. The isolation, depression, flashbacks, and other effects of PTSD put sufferers at high risk of suicide.

Prevalence of Suicidal Thoughts

It is estimated that 69% of people with PTSD have suicidal thoughts, and 20% have suicidal plans at some point. This demonstrates the true severity and threats of living with PTSD.

Among Highest Suicide Rates

Those living with PTSD are some of the highest at risk of suicide. Up to 22 veterans with PTSD die from suicide per day. Seeking professional treatment is crucial for preventing PTSD suicidal ideation from becoming plans and attempts.

PTSD Can Be Overcome With Proper Treatment

Despite living with immense challenges, there are many reasons to be hopeful about recovering from PTSD. The good news is PTSD is highly treatable, especially when caught early.

Strong First Line Treatments

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are very effective at teaching coping strategies to reduce anxiety, depression, flashbacks and other PTSD symptoms. Anti-depressant medications are also commonly prescribed alongside therapy.

Healing Takes Time But is Possible

Recovering from PTSD requires a lot of work in and out of therapy, as well as lifestyle changes to remove triggers, improve self-care, and readjust perspectives. But thousands experience significant healing every year. With the right treatment plan, support system, and self-care, recovering from PTSD is absolutely possible.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.