Are You Struggling With PTSD Or Trauma And Not Getting Help?
“Danny”, a US Army Veteran, had PTSD & Trauma, was struggling and not getting help. He said, “We joked about [PTSD & Trauma] because we were afraid what was happening to us…made us weak and that was something that was not acceptable”. Many people do not seek help when they should because of fear; fear of what family or friends might think. Sometimes, people believe they can work it out on their own. It doesn’t usually work out that way.
What Is PTSD/Trauma?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur in any one at any age at any time. According to the American Psychiatric Association, PTSD can develop in people who “experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, a terrorist act, war/combat, or rape or who have been threatened with death, sexual violence or serious injury.” But exposure to a traumatic incident doesn’t have to be direct. Folks can experience PTSD after learning of the death of a loved one or close friend or through repeated exposure to violent or traumatic experiences, like First Responders or other emergency services personnel.
“I had a lot to live for. I just couldn’t see it.”
This 24 minute video from Silent Images focuses on the personal testimonies of “Danny”, “Torre” and “Carla” and helps to shed light on how PTSD and Trauma affect the body and mind.
Getting Help: “Community is invaluable” for those struggling with PTSD or Trauma
For those struggling with the effects of PTSD or trauma, it’s important to not go through the healing process alone. Everyone needs support now and then. It’s also important for family and friends to come alongside those working through trauma. But many times, friends and family don’t know what to do or how to help. Here are just two organizations assisting veterans, Emergency Services Personnel and others working through trauma:
- Richard’s Coffee Shop in Mooresville, NC, has been described as a “living history museum”. Veterans and visitors alike will find respite, a place to relax, talk, and visit.
- Reboot, a Christian ministry offering courses designed to assist veterans, first responders and the public in healing from trauma. The Ministry also offers support to families and friends. Read more about Matthew Thomas, founder of the local Reboot Charlotte Ministry. Another article highlights the Reboot Ministry.
TRAUMA: Nine-Part Docu-Series
This series, offered through whole.tv, is designed to help those exposed to different types of trauma. Too many times victims of trauma may not know how to deal with the situations with which they struggle. Others use coping strategies that become more destructive than constructive to their lives.
Learn What You’re Facing
“Trauma” seeks to inform and educate viewers on three types of trauma:
- Emotional
- Physical
- Societal
The series also seeks to help viewers learn the triggering effects of trauma, such as:
- Physiological Effects
- Differences Between Chronic Stress & PTSD
- How The Body Responds To Emotional Trauma as Opposed to Physical Trauma
The series ends by helping viewers identify the type of trauma they may be experiencing and how to best to work through those responses.
Free For A Limited Time
The docu-series, TRAUMA, is available for free from the folks at whole.tv for a limited time. Visit the site for more information and to sign up.
“Be OK To Struggle” 
Most importantly, don’t avoid the subject. If you believe you may have symptoms of PTSD, Depression, Anxiety or other mental/emotional health, get help. Talk to a friend, co-worker, counselor or pastor. If you are a family member or friend of someone you feel may be suffering from the affects of PTSD, reach out to them.
