Trigger warning: this article discusses PTSD and may be triggering.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is diagnosed when one experiences symptoms for at least a month after a traumatic event. However, it is possible that these symptoms would not appear until multiple months or even years later. The three main types of symptoms for PTSD are re-experiencing trauma through intrusive, disturbing remembrances of the event through flashbacks and nightmares; becoming emotionally numb to the point of avoiding the places, people, and activities that are associated to the trauma; growing increasingly aroused in a way where sleep and concentration become difficult; and feeling jumpy, angry, and irritated easily. Such symptoms of PTSD can become more or less severe over time. Therefore, it is important to become familiar with the warning signs that may indicate symptoms are being triggered or worsening.
Warning Signs
People who re-experience trauma in the form of PTSD can often suffer from a complete shutdown of their whole body and mind. They feel helpless and unsafe – like they are frozen in time and disconnected from the rest of the world. Specifically, they may give an exaggerated reaction to something that others consider to be small. They begin to stare off into the distance, or zone out, as they go silent, tremble, and avoid making eye contact.
They could start to hyperventilate and become short of breath while expressing that they feel unsafe. In seeking to comfort themselves, they may look for something from their childhood, and even display self-soothing behaviors while avoiding physical contact with others. Moreover, they might shut down emotionally to the point of being unable to express their emotions and struggle to give or connect with others’ needs. Also, they may express a strong desire to be alone or to leave and move to a lower stimulating environment.
Overall, it actually takes a lot of effort, and regular use of healthy coping skills, to manage the symptoms of PTSD, which could be difficult to achieve for a person who suffers from the disorder. Moreover, when they re-experience trauma, they become focused on achieving a sense of safety. They may struggle to engage in anything that does not bring them that feeling, so it is up to the people around them to be patient and help provide that safe space for them during such a difficult time. For this reason, it is crucial to understand these warning signs and not to be quick to dismiss those who suffer from PTSD as people who are “crazy” or “dramatic”.