Post-traumatic stress disorder also known as PTSD is a very serious issue that needs to be taken care of. Only a trained therapist can provide the right help for such a case. However, if someone you know suffers from PTSD, you can also lend a helping hand.
It is quite terrible to witness the changes in your loved ones. When somebody is diagnosed with PTSD, his or her loved ones suffer, too. You may end up feeling helpless and useless because you can’t do too many things in order to alleviate and overcome the symptoms associated with PTSD.
Listen More, Talk Less
People with PTSD have a hard time talking about their traumatic experiences. It’s like they live that experience all over again. So try not to mention what happened for the time being. It takes time to heal. Get ready to listen more and talk less. This is a great way in which you can show your support, care and understanding towards a person with PTSD.
Keep Them Active
A lot of people with PTSD don’t feel like going out that much anymore. Which is perfectly natural, taking into consideration the ordeal they have gone through. But don’t let them forget about the things they like doing. If they have always enjoyed walks in the parks, ask them to join you on a stroll. You can help them find a new hobby or pursue an old passion. As long as they’re active, they’ll be happier and even forget about their traumatic experiences for a while.
Let Them Make Decisions on Their Own
Don’t act like a mother or father and not allow them room for making decisions. They are still capable adults that can handle responsibility and decision making. They won’t engage in a self-destructive behavior that easily.
Help Yourself
You need to be ready to be more objective, even if it is hard at first. Try to detach from your own problems and worries and try to be calm and relaxed when you are near a person with PTSD. If you have problems of your own, problems that are visible to others as well, how can you help a person in need? You need to solve your problems first then help others.
Patience Is a Virtue
A person with PTSD can be volatile, moody and aggressive at times. You have to be patient and understanding even if these changes pain you and affect you to some extent.
Research Is Important
The therapist can explain and help you understand the concept of PTSD, but you still have to research about what it actually means. Knowing about the symptoms, treatment and effects can help you be more of use for the person with PTSD.
Let the Person Open Up to You
If your loved one finally wants to open up about what he or she is going through, you have to be prepared for it. It’s going to be heartbreaking to hear how much pain your loved one is experiencing, but you have to let them open up and vent their feelings off. You have to be strong, calm and be a good listener. It will help them tremendously. Because this is how the road to recovery looks like.
