How to Recognize the Signs of PTSD in Yourself or a Loved One

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. While often associated with military veterans, PTSD can develop in anyone who has faced life-threatening situations, physical abuse, accidents, natural disasters, or other traumatic experiences. Recognizing the signs of PTSD in yourself or a loved one is the first step toward healing and seeking help.

Here’s a guide that explores the key signs of PTSD, how they manifest in daily life, and what you can do to support yourself or someone you care about.

Understanding PTSD: What Is It?

PTSD is a mental health disorder that can occur after exposure to a traumatic event. While not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, those who do often struggle with distressing memories, emotional numbness, and heightened anxiety that interfere with daily life.

The symptoms of PTSD typically fall into four categories: intrusive thoughts, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and heightened reactions. Let’s explore these in detail.

1. Intrusive Thoughts and Flashbacks

One of the hallmark signs of PTSD is experiencing intrusive thoughts related to the traumatic event. These can take different forms, such as:

• Recurrent, distressing memories that are difficult to control
• Nightmares related to the trauma
• Flashbacks that make the person feel as if they are reliving the traumatic event
• Strong emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the trauma

People with PTSD may struggle with sudden memories of the event that disrupt their daily activities, making it difficult to concentrate or feel safe.

2. Avoidance of Reminders

Avoidance is another major symptom of PTSD. People may go to great lengths to avoid anything that reminds them of the trauma, including:

• Avoiding certain places, people, or situations associated with the event
• Refusing to talk about what happened
• Distracting themselves with work or hobbies to escape thoughts about the trauma

While avoidance may seem like a way to protect oneself, it often leads to increased isolation and emotional distress over time. This is why it’s critical to seek professional help from a mental health therapist in Riverside immediately.

3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood

PTSD can significantly alter the way a person thinks and feels about themselves and the world. These changes may include:

• Persistent feelings of guilt or shame
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
• Feeling detached or estranged from loved ones
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Negative thoughts about oneself, others, or the future (e.g., “I can’t trust anyone,” “Nothing will ever get better”)

These mood changes can make it hard to maintain relationships and engage in normal daily activities.

4. Heightened Reactions and Hyperarousal

Many people with PTSD experience a state of hyperarousal, which means they are constantly on edge and in a state of high alert. This can manifest as:

• Being easily startled
• Difficulty sleeping or experiencing frequent nightmares
• Irritability or frequent angry outbursts
• Trouble concentrating
• Engaging in risky or self-destructive behavior

Hyperarousal is the body’s way of remaining prepared for danger, but over time, it can lead to exhaustion and emotional distress.

Recognizing PTSD in Different Age Groups

PTSD can look different depending on a person’s age. Here’s how it may manifest in different groups:

Adults

• Struggles with relationships and social interactions
• Difficulty holding down a job due to emotional distress
• Self-medication through risky behaviors
• Persistent feelings of guilt or responsibility for the trauma

Older Adults

• PTSD symptoms resurfacing later in life after being buried for years
• Increased isolation and withdrawal
• Physical health issues that worsen due to stress
• Difficulty expressing emotions or discussing past trauma

When to Seek Help

If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms for more than a month and they are interfering with daily life, it’s important to seek telehealth mental health counseling. PTSD is not something that simply goes away on its own—without treatment, it can worsen over time.

How to Support a Loved One with PTSD

Supporting someone with PTSD can be challenging, but your presence and understanding can make a significant difference. Here are some ways to help:

1. Encourage Professional Help– Suggest psychotherapy in California, support groups, or medical treatment when appropriate.
2. Be Patient– Healing takes time, and pushing someone to “move on” can make them feel more isolated.
3. Listen Without Judgment– Allow them to share their experiences at their own pace without trying to fix everything.
4. Create a Safe Environment– Help reduce stress by maintaining a stable, calm atmosphere at home.
5. Avoid Triggers When Possible– Be mindful of situations or conversations that may cause distress.
6. Take Care of Yourself Too– Supporting someone with PTSD can be emotionally draining, so ensure you have your own support system.

Available Treatment Options

PTSD is treatable, and many individuals can regain control of their lives with the right help. Some common treatment options include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):Helps individuals process and reframe negative thoughts related to trauma.
• Exposure Therapy:Gradual, controlled exposure to traumatic memories in a safe setting to reduce fear responses.
• Support Groups:Connecting with others who have experienced trauma can provide comfort and validation.
• Medication:Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.

Are You or a Loved One Struggling in Silence?

Recognizing PTSD is the first step toward healing. If you or someone you care about is struggling with symptoms of PTSD, know that you are not alone and that help is available.

MindShift Psychological Services provides compassionate, specialized telehealth therapy services and virtual cognitive behavioral therapy across California as well as in-person sessions in Riverside and Corona for those affected by PTSD. Their licensed therapists understand the challenges of trauma and can help guide you toward a path of healing and recovery.

Book an appointment today and take the first step toward regaining peace and stability.