Anna woke up shivering with beads of sweat that formed on her achy forehead. Her cheek stuck to the crumpled silk pillowcase, which left impressions of restless sleep. Although it was midday, the room was dark. The blackout curtains created a haven from the outside world but not from the repeated dreams she had been having of her vicious attack and witnessing her best friend’s murder. However, nothing could reach inside her head to blackout the haunting memories. Like an octopus’s tentacle, her arm slithered and grabbed the pill bottle and the bottle of water, her remedy to combat her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) developed in individuals after they experienced a depressing crisis. It can happen to anyone at any age. Anna was a 24 years old outgoing, talkative, and considered the life of any party. After the incident, she became withdrawn from her family and friends. Anna stayed in her room most of the time and refused to engage in any activities that would bring her laughter. She became afraid; she cried often and did not eat much. NIMH » Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (nih.gov) gives many other symptoms and triggers that individuals experience, from easily startled to destructive behavior and worst case death.
But it doesn’t have to get to that extreme because Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is treatable, but varies in recovery time. It is very imperative to find an expert who works with PTSD clients. Treatment for individuals diagnosed with PTSD involves medication, talk therapy, or both. Some therapists used animals in their sessions. Anna’s treatment included her daily antidepressant pills and one on one sessions with her social worker and sometimes in group settings. Her family and friends became instrumental in her recovery journey as well. They included Anna in activities and took her out of the house for walks. It was not easy for Anna. She had days where hearing a simple argument triggered her fears and anxiety that brought her back to the scene of the crime. It took months, but over time, she was able to control her disruptive reality and recovered from the disorder. She was able to visit her friend’s gravesite without an anxiety episode.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a real mental illness. If left untreated, the individuals can sink deep and deeper into a realm of an uncontrolled mental state. According to What Happens if PTSD Goes Untreated? – Honey Lake Clinic, not only is it unlikely to go away on its own but if left untreated, the symptoms can become much worse with time. If you know someone who experienced severe trauma and had become withdrawn and not acting like their usual self, please reach out to the person and advise him/her to seek help. You can visit PTSD: National Center for PTSD Home (va.gov) to find more information on PTSD, treatment options, and getting help, as well as additional resources for families and friends.
Ok, I said it!