Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological reaction that develops following overwhelming, frightening or traumatic events. Women who have experienced sexual abuse or domestic violence over some years may develop PTSD. Australian research has indicated that 45% of women experiencing domestic violence meet the criteria for PSTD. What are the symptoms? How do I know if it affects me? You may recognize some or all of the following indicators of PTSD: Reliving the events (flashbacks) Recurring thoughts or nightmares about the events Having trouble sleeping Being on edge, being easily startled or becoming overly alert Experiencing anxiety and fear, especially when exposed to situations that are reminiscent of trauma Feeling depressed, sad and having low energy Experiencing memory problems Feeling scattered and unable to concentrate on work or daily activities Having difficulty making decisions Feeling irritable, easily agitated, or angry and resentful Feeling emotionally numb, withdrawn, disconnected or different from others Spontaneously crying, and feeling a sense of despair and hopelessness. Feeling extremely protective of, or fearful for, the safety of loved ones Experiencing heart palpitations, chest pain, sweating or dizziness for unknown reasons Avoiding people or places that may trigger memories Having difficulty maintaining social, family or work relationships Having a sense of a shortened future; having thoughts that you won't live long. These symptoms or indicators may come and go, and may vary in intensity over time. Being aware of these symptoms and observing your experiences of them over a period of time can be helpful. Some suggestions and strategies are listed over the page. Women who are experiencing these symptoms sometimes feel they are mad or crazy. Friends and family may say things like 'you have to move on' or 'you need to get over it now' or 'get it together'. Friends and family, while attempting to be supportive, may not understand that this is a condition known as Post-traumatic stress, and cannot be removed by an attitude. It's important to remember that if you have many of these symptoms, and if you have been experiencing them for more than a month or so, it's difficult to recover just by changing your attitude (as loved ones suggest). What can I do about PTSD? Some options which may assist you to manage these conditions are: read about Post-traumatic stress and find out more about common reactions see a doctor or a healer if the physical symptoms are distressing or disorienting try relaxation exercises or breathing exercises use music or art activities at home to give you some relief from unwanted thought patterns try walking or swimming rhythmically to establish rhythms for breathing (and thinking) see a naturopath or herbalist for vitamins or tonics for your nervous system consider some counselling sessions to deal with the traumas of the past, OR to learn some strategies for coping with the symptoms you have now try a guided mediation class or tape (which is often more comfortable than silent meditation for stress-related conditions) make a habit of writing things down if you're worried about forgetting things develop a range of things you can do during the night if you can't sleep: reading, craft activities, warm drinks etc. give yourself permission to have 'good days' and 'bad days' let trusted people know you have anxiety so that they will understand if you break engagements, or need to leave early believe in yourself! Who can I contact? Contact your GP if you haven't done so, for a medical check-up and perhaps a referral for counselling. Community Health Centres can provide free counselling, as can Lifeline. The Anxiety Management Clinic in Lismore provides individual and group work for managing anxiety and panic attacks. If you have regular appointments with an alternative healer, speak to them about your symptoms and the possible connection with post-traumatic stress. Contact the Women's Resource Service for free counselling or referral to other services in the area. If your stress and trauma is a result of a violent crime, you may be eligible for Victim Services counselling and compensation.