How to Talk About PTSD A Veteran’s Guide
By Telemedica
11/15/2024
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects many veterans, frequently because of traumatic experiences encountered during their service.
However, talking about PTSD isn’t always easy, especially due to the stigma around mental health conditions.
The post is to help guide veterans with PTSD through essential conversations in a way that is respectful and supportive.
Understanding PTSD
Before you discuss PTSD with others, it’s important to understand it yourself. PTSD is a mental health problem that develops after you go through or see a life-threatening event.
It’s normal to have stress reactions to these events; however, most people start to feel better after a few weeks. If your symptoms last longer than a month and are causing problems in your life, it could be PTSD.
According to the VA, there are four types of PTSD symptoms:
- Reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms)
- Avoiding reminders of the event
- Negative thoughts and feelings
- Feeling on edge or keyed up (also called hyperarousal)
See More: The Importance of Veteran Mental Health
How to Explain Your PTSD to Family Members
Explaining your PTSD to family members can be a daunting task and you might worry about their reaction.
However, sharing your PTSD with your loved ones can lead to a greater understanding and support of your situation.
Ten tips for talking to your family about PTSD
- Prepare yourself emotionally and reflect on what you want to share.
- Anticipate potential questions they might ask to help mentally prepare yourself.
- Select a time and place where you can talk without interruptions.
- Start by explaining what PTSD is. You can start with a simple definition: “PTSD is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it.”
- Remind your loved ones that it’s not something you chose, and you can’t “just get over it.”
- Share your personal experience and current symptoms. (Remember to share to the level you feel comfortable with.)
- Discuss your triggers and coping mechanisms to help your family know how to support you better.
- Offer resources to your family members about PTSD.
- Don’t be afraid to set boundaries, while letting them know what support you need.
- Consider seeking professional help together, as a therapist can provide valuable insights and help facilitate the discussion.
Remember, your journey with PTSD is unique, but sharing it with your family can help lighten the load and foster a sense of understanding and connection.
How to Talk About PTSD With Your Doctor
Discussing PTSD with your doctor can be intimidating, but it’s an essential step to getting the help and support you need (and deserve!).
Taking some time to prepare beforehand and being honest and open, can help your doctor develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and can lead to meaningful and positive changes in your mental health.
Things to consider when speaking to speaking with your doctor are:
- Prepare before your appointment (i.e.: make a list of your symptoms and their severity, write down about any specific traumatic events, and what coping mechanisms you’ve tried)
- If possible, choose a doctor with experience with mental health issues.
- Be honest and open, while using direct and clear language to describe your feelings and behavior.
- Describe your symptoms in detail to help your doctor better understand the extent of your condition.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions about PTSD, including potential treatment methods.
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Consider a referral to a specialist, who may be better suited to help with PTSD.
Additional Resources: Recurring Therapy for Veterans with PTSD
Talking With Fellow Veterans About PTSD
Talking to fellow veterans with similar experiences can be incredibly supportive and impactful. For example, you can join support groups that provide a safe space to share experiences and coping strategies.
A few tips for these conversations include:
- Be respectful and supportive while remembering that every veteran’s experience with PTSD is unique.
- Be mindful of triggers or certain topics that are sensitive to your fellow veteran.
- Share resources that have helped you with PTSD, including books, websites, or mental health professionals specializing in treating veterans
Connect with the Veterans Crisis Line
You can confidentially connect with someone anytime day or night through the Veterans Crisis Line by:
- Dialing 988 and Selecting 1
- Starting a confidential chat online
- Texting 838255
The Veterans Crisis Line serves Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them.
Note: You do not have to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare to connect.
Resource Guide: How to Help a Veteran in Crisis
Remember, You’re Not Weak
It’s vital to remember that asking for help or admitting you are suffering, doesn’t mean you’re weak. The virtues of strength and bravery are highly valued in the military—and rightly so.
However, cultural prejudices and stereotypes have skewed those virtues into something they were never intended to be; a tough guy (or gal) who masks what’s happening inside.
The stigma surrounding mental health conditions is illogical and unproductive and could keep you from recognizing the extent of your condition and getting the help you need.