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Ways To Support Loved Ones With PTSD: PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a psychological disorder that develops in people who have experienced stressful or traumatic events in the past, which develop the natural habit of feeling afraid during and after a traumatic situation. According to Mayo Clinic, PTSD is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event either experiencing it or witnessing it. Some common symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

The National Center for PTSD states that about six out of every 100 people will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Women are more likely to develop PTSD than men. Certain aspects of the traumatic event and some biological factors (such as genes) may make some people more likely to develop PTSD.

Watch the video below for tips to deal with stress effectively: 

Having a family member, friend or a close one suffering from PTSD can be a challenging situation to deal with as it is not easy to deal with people with this mental health condition. It is important to take the necessary steps and build a positive environment at home to help PTSD patients recover. Here are some ways in which you can help and support your loved ones who are suffering from PTSD.

1. Know About The Condition

Without knowing about what PTSD is, its symptoms, causes and treatment, you cannot extend a hand of help and support. Therefore the first step to help is to know everything about this mental health condition. According to the National Center For PTSD, knowing how PTSD affects people may help you understand what your family member is going through. The more you know, the better you and your family can handle PTSD.

2. Keep Track Medication

People suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder find it difficult to manage their things and carry out their daily chores. If you have a loved one suffering from PTSD, you should help them by keeping a check on their medications. Keep in mind about the timings of their medicines and schedules of therapy.

3. Emotional Support

Making them feel that you are there for them is one of the best and most effective ways to protect and support people with PTSD. Your comfort, warmth, presence and affirmative words can make a big impact on the minds and hearts of PTSD patients. During those stressful times, your emotional support can help reduce psychological stress, lower anxiety levels, and speed up healing.

4. Listen 

Apart from offering emotional support, listen to them patiently without giving any advice. Tell them that you want to listen and that you also understand if it's not the right time to talk or you are uncomfortable communicating.

5. Fun Activities

People struggling with PTSD lose interest in their hobbies and avoid indulging in any fun activities. But you can try to motivate them by organising fun activities at your home or outside to make them feel fresh and happy. Take them on a walk, go for a bike ride, or do some other physical activity together.

 

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)