Common Myths About PTSD: Ending Stigmas for Healing

The myths about PTSD are vast and give misleading information about this condition. Having proper care and support to heal is crucial in overcoming the struggle. Speaking with a professional can shed some light and debunk some of the myths associated with the condition that often keep people from getting help and healing. Learning how to live with the condition, and manage its symptoms, can help the individual to regain control of their life. 

Myth: Only Military Veterans and First Responders can have PTSD

When it comes to common myths about PTSD, many people believe that only military and first responders such as police officers can have it. PTSD, like many other mental health conditions, is not exclusive to any subtype. Getting past this thought process can open the door for those who are struggling with the condition to get proper care. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition that can affect anyone who has suffered traumatic experiences. Trauma can induce several different responses in the individual who experiences it, and that is not exclusive to just military and first responders. 

Myth: You Can Just Overcome PTSD with Willpower

Unfortunately, this is a common misconception about PTSD. This is a mental health condition that can cause major upheaval in the lives of those who are struggling with it. Willpower alone will not make the condition go away. It often requires in-depth therapy. Much like depression and anxiety, PTSD often requires professional care and support to prevent the worsening of symptoms. Willpower alone doesn’t usually fend off the uncomfortable and unpleasant symptoms of the condition.

Myth: PTSD Happens Immediately After Trauma

Trauma response can be triggered at any time. It does not need to be directly after the event occurs. It can take days, weeks, or months for the symptoms to arise. This is one of the detrimental myths about PTSD because someone who begins to experience symptoms of the condition can ignore them if they believe this myth. This can lead to major disruption in their life, making it difficult to complete daily tasks without interruption. Seeking help for PTSD can help prevent the worsening of these symptoms and promote healing.

Myth: Symptoms of PTSD are All Obvious

Like depression and anxiety, not all symptoms of PTSD are obvious. This is one of the common misconceptions about PTSD. The symptoms of this mental health condition can be less obvious, causing behavioral and emotional changes that may be hard to understand. This is why it is highly suggested to speak with a professional regarding the symptoms so they can properly be addressed and treated.

Myth: PTSD Will Affect Everyone Who Experiences Trauma

Like other myths about PTSD, this is an extremely common one. This condition can affect anyone who experiences trauma, however, it does not affect everyone who experiences it. Just like many other conditions, mental and physical, not everyone will be afflicted with exposure. Some people can process trauma and not end up struggling with PTSD symptoms while others have related symptoms. Again, it can affect anyone, but it does not affect everyone.

Myth: Untreated PTSD will Eventually Subside

Unfortunately, this is another of the common misconceptions about PTSD. PTSD, if left untreated, can seem to be “getting better” however, it can eventually cause immense emotional upheaval and trigger major changes in personality and behaviors, making daily life extremely difficult. Treatment is essential for overcoming this condition. Speaking with a professional can help someone begin the process.

Myth: PTSD Presents in the Same Way for Everyone

Mental health struggles are not cookie-cutter. Not everyone will experience the same symptoms or have the same responses as a result of this condition. Some symptoms of PTSD can present similarly in several people, however, not everyone will feel the same way through the struggle. For example, some people may have manageable anxiety, while others may experience crippling anxiety and cannot function while feeling it. Everyone heals differently, just as they experience the symptoms differently.

Myth: There Aren’t Effective Treatments for PTSD

Treatment for PTSD is extremely effective and can help those who are struggling. It can allow them to feel relief from the symptoms and begin emotionally healing to live a healthy and happy life for years to come. This is one of the most detrimental myths about PTSD as it often leads people who are suffering to suffer alone, and not seek professional guidance and care to begin healing. Therapy and support are an essential part of healing, and PTSD treatment can help these people gain control back of their lives.

Heal With Caring Staff

PTSD can be an extremely life-changing experience for those who suffer from it. The impacts of this condition on the individual’s everyday life can be severe, making maintaining normalcy extremely difficult. PTSD can lead to strained relationships, difficulty with emotional regulation, as well as various other changes. If you or a loved one are struggling with PTSD, we can help. At Healthy Minds our caring and professional staff help guide you through the healing process to help ensure a positive outcome. Call us today to begin your journey.