Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: The Faces of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

"Post dramatic stress disorder is not like a visible wound that needs a band-aid to make it all better," declared my friend as she opened up to share her life struggles with me. It's a silent disease that effects the person, often destroying their family in the process.

According to the National Center for PTSD, this disease can occur after someone experiences a traumatic event like a combat situation, life-threatening accident, or disaster. PTSD effects both soldiers and civilians alike.

People who endured traumatic childhoods are at a greater risk of getting PTSD as an adult. Childhood trauma can be classified as: anything that disrupts a child’s sense of safety and security such as an unstable or unsafe home environment, domestic violence, or parental neglect (lack of basic necessities such as a bed or emotional neglect).

As stated by the American Psychiatric Association, post traumatic stress disorder is caused when an observer or participant experiences an extremely traumatic event which produces negative feelings of intense fear, helplessness or horror. The list includes (but is not limited to): war, torture, rape, sexual or physical assault, being kidnapped, terrorism, natural disaster (e.g. a bushfire, flood or cyclone), major car accident, or being diagnosed with a potentially fatal illness.

Within the military whelm, there is a large stigma attached to PTSD. Among peers, when someone is diagnosed with PTSD, he/she often becomes the source of ridicule. In addition, attitudes like "I can handle anything" or "I'm tough enough" often prevent soldiers from seeking the mental help and support that they need. As a result, many soldiers walk around untreated.

People who have PTSD often try to control others as a way of coping with their own memories and fears. They often blame others for their problems and don’t remember or apologize for the hurtful things that they say or do. In a way, their personality changes. This behavior can be detrimental to the spouses and children involved as they often suffer in silence.

What can be done to help? Paramount to helping someone survive trauma is realizing that you, too, are affected by the trauma and that deciding to help is a big commitment. One of the best ways to support a traumatized person is to actively and sympathetically listen. Reassure them that they can survive this ordeal and that you are willing to help. You can also offer practical assistance like running errands or cooking. Encourage and offer to assist them in seeking professional help. NEVER minimize the trauma or belittle their fears.

Acknowledgement is key and healing can begin when the survivor realizes that the trauma was real and had an effect on his/her life. Talking with a psychologist and/or joining a support group will also aid in the recovery process.