Common Misconceptions About PTSD Debunked

There are many common myths when it comes to PTSD, and a lot of these are unfounded and leaves the illness with a massive stigma. PTSD is a condition which can affect people from all walks of life, and it is also something that can happen to anyone. 

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Below we debunk some of the most common myths which may help you with a friend or family member that is suffering from this affliction. 

Only Soldiers Get PTSD

When a lot of people think of PTSD, they automatically think of soldiers coming back from war, and many soldiers do indeed suffer from this condition. However, anybody that experiences a traumatic event can get PTSD, and it is more common than many people think it is. Whatever has triggered the condition, you can get residential treatment for PTSD, or you can also receive counselling and therapy as an outpatient. It is best to receive treatment as soon as possible, and whichever way you are most comfortable. 

There Is No Cure For PTSD

Another common misconception with PTSD is that there is no cure available for it, so people who suffer from the condition will have to deal with it for the rest of their lives. However, this is not true at all and with the different available treatments, there are very high success rates in making a full recovery. Some of the most common forms of treatment that are used on people living with PTSD are:

• Psychotherapy
• Cognitive Processing
• Medication
• Exposure Therapy

A patient may receive one or all of these treatments. It will depend on the severity of their condition and how receptive they are to therapy with their PTSD. Recovery can take some time, but with perseverance and adherence to medical advice, a full recovery is possible.

If You Have PTSD You Are Prone To Violence 

The association with violence and PTSD possibly have links with people’s opinions that it is only soldiers who suffer from it. Some people that have PTSD do have violent tendencies, but in most cases, they had these before the event that triggered suffering. Just as many people that have PTSD do not have any violent tendencies at all, and they can often retreat into their shell rather than creating a confrontation and becoming violent.

If It Happened A Long Time Ago, You Are Over It

This is another popular misconception when it comes to PTSD. People assume that just because a traumatic event may have happened a long time ago, it does not mean that the wounds are fully healed. If the person who has PTSD has never confronted the problem head-on, then it could be something that they take with them for the rest of their lives. It is because of this that it is so vital that people get the help and support they need when dealing with traumatic events, as early as possible, helping them back on the road to recovery.

PTSD Is A Sign Of Weakness

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When someone has PTSD, it is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign that someone needs help with their mental health. It is often the stronger people that seek the assistance of others, and it is because they are willing and able to ask for help that they are strong. Bottling up the feelings and emotions inside is a powder keg waiting to explode.

As hard as it is, it is best to tackle the problem head-on, which will help things get better much quicker.