5 Encouraging Facts About PTSD

PTSD (or post-traumatic stress disorder) can be a very difficult issue to navigate. Many people even avoid getting diagnosed because of an underlying fear that giving a name to their condition will be painful and possibly even retraumatizing. 

But it’s important to recognize that getting help for PTSD is the best way to start healing. And there are actually several facts about this disorder that offer encouragement.

Mind and Body Medicine, LLC, provides treatment for PTSD and other mental health conditions.  Tamara McDonald, DNP, wants you to be able to live a life of strength and satisfaction, and her effective yet gentle techniques can help you get there.  

5 encouraging facts about PTSD 

PTSD is a syndrome that causes anywhere from mild to severe symptoms related to an experience of trauma. The misunderstanding that surrounds this disorder leads to some of the concerning beliefs associated with it, but you should know there are actually many ways for you to heal and start experiencing a life free from pain again. 

1. PTSD doesn’t just affect combat survivors 

Many people think this condition only affects soldiers and those who have served in the military. But the truth is anyone can get PTSD from any kind of traumatic event. This includes (but isn’t limited to) any type of abuse or violence, an accident, a home invasion, a natural disaster, caregiving work, or the loss of a loved one.

These situations are varied, but they can all create the painful symptoms associated with PTSD, such as memory loss, anxiety, depression, and flashbacks. This fact is encouraging because many people incorrectly think they don’t have this condition because they weren’t soldiers. Being able to recognize and name your disorder is the first step toward getting better.

2. Therapy helps you recover

For people who struggle with the symptoms of PTSD, getting better can seem so far away. Often, the stigma and the uncertainty of how to get help can get in the way. But the truth is therapy is often the crux of treatment for PTSD. 

When you’re recovering from this condition, building a strong bond with your therapist and being able to work with them in a safe, secure environment is key. Over time, your therapist will implement real solutions that allow you to control your responses and behaviors and begin to manage your symptoms. 

3. Medicines can be helpful too 

But therapy isn’t the only option for your recovery. Different medications can be very helpful in treating PTSD. For example, antidepressants can help you start to feel more like yourself and give you the energy you’ll need to tackle the big issues you’ll work through in therapy. In addition, sleep aids can ensure you’re able to rest more comfortably at night. 

The good news is many patients don’t take these medications forever. Depending on your specific situation, you and your provider may decide together how long you should keep taking medication or if it would be better to stay on a specific one long-term. 

4. Full recovery is possible 

According to the World Health Organization, 40% of patients diagnosed with PTSD recover within a year. This is a fantastic prognosis. And while for some patients, it takes longer, you have every reason to believe you’ll make a full recovery and be able to live without the constant pain of your symptoms. 

5. PTSD is also preventable

If you’ve seen someone go through this, or you’re hoping to prevent it from happening to you again, it is possible to avoid this disorder. Some ways to do this are to have coping strategies in place to lean on in difficult times and talk to your loved ones about your feelings. 

PTSD is a difficult experience but it can get better

This is the most important fact to remember. Don’t suffer alone. You deserve to heal.

To make an appointment at our Boise, ID, office, call 208-591-6410 or schedule online. We offer both in-person and telehealth options for effective psychiatric treatment. Let’s begin today.